Ticks and Lyme Disease
With the weather heating up, and more and more of us working outside, we need to be aware of the dangers of Lyme disease. This is a disease that can really affect us, and our pets. There is more awareness around Lyme disease and the pre-cautions we can take to protect ourselves, which is great. However, there are some things we can all do to help ourselves.
What is Lyme disease?
It’s a bacterial infection that is spread to humans by ticks. It’s usually easier to treat if they can diagnose it early.
But how do you know you have it?
The classic symptom is the rash around the bite. This can show anywhere up to 3 months after being bitten by the tick, however usually it appears within 1 to 4 weeks. The rash can last for several weeks. Typically, we see the bullseye rash, however it can also look like a dark bruise.
It can also give you flu-like symptoms a few days or weeks after you are bitten. This can include.
High temperature
Headache
Muscle and joint pain
Tiredness and loss of energy
The ticks which are infected can be found all over the UK, but high-risk areas include grassy and wooded areas in southern and northern England and the Scottish Highlands.
How to spot the tick and remove
The bite might not be painful, so it’s important to check the skin after being outdoors in these higher risk areas.
To safely remove use tweezers or a tick removal tool, grasp as close to the skin as possible, slowly pull upwards (do not squeeze or crush the tick), clean the bite.
The chances of getting ill are low, however if you notice the rash or become unwell, go to your GP. Treatment can be started; however, symptoms can last for months and impact your daily life. Sometimes specialist hospital treatment will be needed.
How to avoid tick bites
As with everything in health and safety, it’s important to avoid the risk in the first instance.
Cover your skin while walking outdoors and tuck trousers into socks.
Use insect repellent – products containing DEET are the best.
Stay on clear paths where possible.
Wear lighter coloured clothing so that ticks are easier to see and can be brushed off.
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