Track Ticks to Prevent Lyme Disease

From Johnson County Public Health

After an unusually cold start to spring, warmer weather is drawing people outdoors once again. Johnson County Public Health encourages residents to take advantage of the many opportunities to become more active outdoors and also reminds residents to protect themselves against tick bites. Ticks can carry the organisms that cause Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and Ehrlichiosis.

Lyme disease is the most common illness transmitted by ticks, and although it is not often fatal, infection without early treatment may result in chronic disease. Since May, there have been 12 reported cases of Lyme disease from sites located throughout Johnson County. There is no longer a vaccine for Lyme disease; however, Lyme disease is treatable with antibiotics. Lyme disease is not likely to be transmitted by ticks unless the tick is attached to the skin for at least 36 hours. Therefore, it is important to conduct frequent, thorough examinations for ticks to prevent the transmission of Lyme disease in the event that a tick bite occurs. The following are tips for avoiding tick bites:

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Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks when hiking or walking through grassy areas Tuck pant legs inside socks or wear high rubber boots Wear light clothing to allow greater visibility of ticks on clothing Wear insect repellent containing DEET when spending time outdoors

Guidelines for Safe Tick Removal

Ticks already attached to skin should be removed using fine-tipped tweezers. DO NOT use petroleum jelly, a hot match, nail polish, or other products. Grasp the tick firmly and as closely to the skin as possible. With a steady motion, pull the tick's body away from the skin. Do not twist the tick. The tick's mouthparts may remain in the skin. The bacteria that cause Lyme disease are contained in the tick's mid- gut or salivary glands. Cleanse the area with an antiseptic.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Symptoms of Lyme disease usually appear within 7-14 days following a tick bite. Most people will experience a red, slowly expanding “bull’s eye” rash surrounding the tick bite area. Other symptoms include fatigue, head, neck, and muscle aches, fever, and joint pain. If untreated, people can develop arthritis, periodic joint swelling, and potentially severe neurologic and cardiac abnormalities. It is important to seek early treatment if these symptoms occur following a tick bite.