Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to lyme disease:
- Lyme disease is a potentially serious but treatable illness spread by ticks.
- Ticks carrying Lyme disease are prevalent in most of the United States.
- Most people who contract Lyme disease do not remember being bitten by a tick.
- Lyme disease is generally identified by its symptoms, with blood tests used to support the diagnosis.
- The most common symptoms of Lyme disease include a spreading rash and a flu-like illness.
Arthritis symptoms are common, especially in the knees. - Lyme disease is treated with
antibiotics ; early intervention is the best way to reduce the likelihood of chronic problems. - The long-term prognosis for Lyme disease treated early is excellent.
- Untreated Lyme disease could cause problems with the heart and nervous system.
- Prevention of tick bites and prompt removal of attached ticks is important to help avoid infection.
- A Lyme disease vaccine is available for people ages 15 to 70.
