According to the NHS, Lyme disease is ‘a bacterial infection that can be spread to humans by infected ticks’. In most cases the disease can be treated through a course of antibiotics, though there are worse cases with longer term effects. It is also important to remember that Lyme disease is not contagious between humans.
Lyme disease is ‘a bacterial infection that can be spread
to humans by infected ticks’.
Within rural areas in the US, cases of Lyme disease have increased four times over within the last 15 years and in urban areas cases have become 65% greater.
In the UK the areas that cause the biggest concern are grassy and wooded areas, mainly in England and the Scottish Highlands. If you are in these areas, it is advised that you cover your skin and tuck your trousers into your socks or shoes.
Warming temperatures, due to climate change, has meant that these ticks have a wider range of habitats, they are spreading at a quicker rate, and they are appearing earlier in the year than they normally would. When hiking, walking or cycling through grassy and wooded areas make sure you always check for ticks and if you find any remove them safely. If you do find a tick bite on your skin, which usually looks like an oval or circular rash, make sure you make an appointment with your GP as soon as possible.
For more information on Lyme disease and its symptoms, visit the NHS website at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lyme-disease/.
