By Josie  May 30th, 2023

Ticks and Lyme Disease

Ticks and Lyme Disease

Pennsylvania's Hidden Threats: 

Pennsylvania has the largest population of ticks in the U.S - and consequently the highest rate of Lyme Disease.

Here's all you need to know about them:

They are small and black or brown, with a reddish-brown abdomen.

What Are Ticks?

Ticks are anarchnids.

There are over 850 species of ticks worldwide and about 90 different species in North America.

The most common tick types are the deer tick, dog tick, and lone star tick.

Deer ticks, also known as black-legged ticks, are the primary carriers of Lyme disease.

What Is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted through an infected tick’s bite.

The early signs of Lyme disease can often be mistaken for flu-like symptoms, including fever, fatigue, chills, headache, and muscle aches.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Some patients can even fall victim to neurological damage, arthritis, and heart problems.

Other symptoms include joint pain, neurological problems and heart palpitations.

Long-Term Effects 

If left untreated, the Lyme disease can become chronic causing: - joint pain - fatigue - muscle weakness - cognitive impairment

On average, 100,000 cases of Lyme disease are reported in Pennsylvania every year.

Statistics of Lyme Disease

However, the number is probably way higher due to underreporting.

Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and high socks to prevent ticks from latching onto your skin.

How To Protect Yourself

Wear light-colored clothing, as it can make spotting ticks easier.

Numerous ongoing clinical trials are testing potential Lyme disease vaccines, with one currently approved by the FDA.

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