Lyme Disease is a bacterium that is often carried by mice and other small rodents. The disease can be transmitted to humans if they are bitten by a tick that has previously fed off an infected animal.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease typically develop within two weeks of a tick bite and can include fevers, chills, swollen lymph nodes, neck stiffness, fatigue, headaches, and joint or muscle aches.
In 2017, there were 841 reported cases of Lyme disease in Canada. That has risen to just over 1,800 in 2019. To avoid contracting Lyme Disease, practice the following:
- Wear light-coloured clothing, including long-sleeved shirts and pants when in wooded areas. Tuck pant legs into socks or boots. Keep long hair tied back.
- Wash your body and clothing after all outdoor activities.
- Look periodically for ticks if you have been outdoors - especially if you have been in wooded areas or gardens.
- Remove ticks within 24 hours to greatly reduce the risk of contracting the disease.
- Check your pet's coat if it has been in a possible tick-infested area.
Remember to consult your healthcare provider as soon as you experience Lyme Disease symptoms.
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