Lyme Disease Alert: Health Officials Warn of Tick-Borne Illness as Spring Arrives
LONDON— As warmer weather beckons and people flock outdoors, health officials are sounding teh alarm about a health threat beyond seasonal allergies: lyme disease. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging the public to take precautions against tick-borne infections,including Lyme disease,which can lead to debilitating,long-term health issues if left untreated.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks. Thes ticks thrive in grassy and wooded areas and are most active between April and July, coinciding with increased outdoor activities.“during the springtime, everyone wants to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air in the great outdoors, but don’t forget that ticks often hang out in grassy, wooded areas too,” the UKHSA said in a recent statement posted on X, formerly Twitter. “Stay safe, #BeTickAware, and learn simple ways to protect yourself.”
While not all ticks carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, the infection can trigger a wide range of symptoms, from joint pain and fatigue to memory problems, if not promptly treated with antibiotics. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preventing the disease from becoming chronic.
Howard Carter, a bite-prevention expert and CEO of Incognito, emphasized the importance of awareness. “Most people are unaware of the threat of ticks to their long-term well-being,” Carter said. “It can become a chronic and debilitating illness if left untreated. So, regardless of your destination, home or abroad, make sure that you consider the risks of ticks before you pack your bags.”
Celebrities Share Their Experiences
several high-profile figures have publicly shared their struggles with Lyme disease, raising awareness of the illness. Among them are singer Justin Bieber, who revealed his diagnosis in 2020, describing it as a “rough couple of years” leading up to the diagnosis. Bieber detailed his experiences with the disease, including its impact on his skin, brain function, energy levels, and overall health, in his YouTube documentary series “Seasons.”
Supermodel Bella Hadid, singer Avril Lavigne, country star Shania Twain, and British comedian Miranda Hart have also spoken out about their battles with Lyme disease.
Symptoms and prevention
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that Lyme disease affects nearly 500,000 Americans each year. The most recognizable symptom of early-stage Lyme disease is a distinctive skin rash that frequently enough resembles a bull’s-eye, with a red center surrounded by a clear ring and an outer red circle. However, not everyone with Lyme disease develops this rash.
Other early symptoms can include:
Fever
Chills
Fatigue
Headache
Muscle and joint aches
Swollen lymph nodes
If left untreated, Lyme disease can progress to more severe symptoms, including:
Severe joint pain and swelling, particularly in the knees
Neurological problems such as meningitis, Bell’s palsy (paralysis of facial muscles), and cognitive impairment
Heart problems
Protecting Yourself From Ticks
The UKHSA and CDC recommend the following precautions to prevent tick bites:
Use Insect Repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or other EPA-registered ingredients to exposed skin and clothing. Always follow product instructions.
Wear Protective clothing: When in wooded or grassy areas, wear long sleeves, long pants tucked into socks or boots, and a hat.
Stay on Marked Trails: Walk in the center of trails to avoid brushing against vegetation where ticks may be present.
Tick-Proof Your Yard: Keep lawns mowed, clear brush and leaf litter, and create a barrier of wood chips or gravel between lawns and wooded areas.
Check for Ticks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks. Pay close attention to areas such as the scalp, behind the ears, in the armpits, and groin.
Remove Ticks Promptly and Properly: If you find a tick, remove it as soon as possible using fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Do not twist or jerk the tick. After removing the tick, clean the bite area with soap and water.
Monitor for Symptoms: Watch for any signs of Lyme disease, such as a rash or flu-like symptoms, and consult a doctor if you develop any concerns.What To Do If You Are Bitten
The UKHSA offers the following guidance if you are bitten by a tick:
Remove ticks as soon as you find them.
Use a tick removal device or a pair of tweezers; grasp the tick as close to the skin as you can and pull firmly upwards.
Clean the bite area with soap and water.
Look out for a spreading,bullseye rash – one of the most common symptoms of Lyme disease.
* If you become unwell, call your GP or 111.
By taking these precautions and staying informed about Lyme disease,individuals can protect themselves and their families from this perhaps serious illness and enjoy the outdoors with greater peace of mind.
