Lyme Disease
The following list of questions and answers was adapted from a pamphlet
I received at Mongaup Pond State Park. The pamphlet was written by the
NY State Department of Health.
What is Lyme disease?
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection, spread by the bite of a deer
tick, that can cause skin, heart, nervous system and arthritic
problems.
Where is the tick found?
Infected ticks are concentrated on Long Island (including Fire Island
and Block Island), the lower Hudson Valley (Westchester and Putnam
counties), and Connecticut. Ticks have been found in most parts of the
tri-state region.
What does the tick look like?
The adult tick is no bigger than a sesame seed and is therefore
difficult to see. It is black and red before feeding. After it has
filled with blood, it is the size of a small pea and is blue/black in
color.
How can I avoid being bitten?
Stay in the center of woodland paths: don't bushwhack. Wear
light-colored, long-sleeved shirts and long pants, with bottoms tucked
into socks or boots. Check yourself, pets, and children often while
outside. Check again at home.
What about tick repellents?
Repellents containing the chemical DEET or permethrin provide some
protection against ticks. When used improperly, however, repellents
can harm you. Always read and follow carefully the directions on the
product label. Do NOT allow children to apply repellents.
When am I most likely to be bitten?
Ticks can bite you during any month, but the most common time is from
April through October. June and July are the months of highest risk.
What should I do if I am bitten?
A tick must remain on you for many hours to transmit Lyme disease. If
you find a tick, use tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin
as possible. Pull steadily and firmly. Apply antiseptic. Save the tick
by placing it in alcohol. Your doctor may want to see it.
What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?
You may get a large circular rash with a clear center in the first
month after you are bitten. A flu-like illness is also common. Within
weeks or months, your nervous system may be affected, and you could
suffer from meningitis, encephalitis, or facial palsy. Heart problems
may also occur. Months or years later, you may develop chronic
arthritis.
Is there a way to treat Lyme disease?
Lyme disease is treatable with antibiotics. The earlier treatment
begins, the easier it is to prevent long-term problems.
Albert P. Rosen, M.D. wrote in the July/August 1996 issue of the
Trailwalker (published by the NY/NJ Trail Conference):
"In my past 20 years of
hiking with
the Lyme disease threat, I've not hiked in hot weather with my pants
tucked
into my boots. I wear shorts (I would rather acquire Lyme disease than
die of
heat exhaustion), and I use DEET and Permethrin-treated clothing, which
provide
the best form of personal protection. I shower after I hike. These
measures
have been extremely effective in warding off Lyme disease.
"I feel strongly that Lyme disease is two diseases: Lyme disease and
hysteria."
Other Web pages on Lyme Disease:
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