Latest news with #LymeDiseaseAwarenessMonth
Yahoo
3 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Lyme warriors and supporters brave the weather for annual walk
TOWN OF GEDDES, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — About 150 Lyme warriors and supporters showed up in full force for the Legs Against Lyme Walk at Long Branch Park to wrap up Lyme Disease Awareness Month. The walk, put on by the Central New York Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Alliance, offered education and resources about tick prevention, removal, and Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. 'It's all about prevention from our end,' Jonah Cummings, the Education Coordinator for the CNY Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Alliance, said. 'So, talking about proper repellents, the tick removal process, we have educators here to teach people about that. We have experts from our board, doctors and scientists who can catch you up on the latest research and things about Lyme disease.' The walk is all about moving the conversation about Lyme and other diseases forward. 'It's a very complex disease sometimes, and hopefully we're making it a little easier to digest with events like these.' Jonah Cummings This was the fourth year of the Legs Against Lyme Walk, and each year it gets a little bit bigger, adding some new people and welcoming back others who have been walking since day one. 'I walk for my daughter. My daughter has had Lyme for almost 14 years now, and it wasn't discovered early enough, and she's doing great now, but she suffered for a long time,' Doug Pinckney, who has done this walk every year, said. All of the money raised at the walk will go towards events to educate the people of Central New York on Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
18-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
How to spot ticks and remove them
(NewsNation) — It's tick season, and no one wants to find one of those pesky creatures somewhere on our body, or worse, end up in the hospital with Lyme disease. May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month. The infection progresses in stages after an infected tick bites a human and causes joint pain. The bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi in deer ticks, also called black-legged ticks, causes Lyme disease, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Dog ticks and wood ticks don't carry the infection. The Cleveland Clinic offers tips on how to spot ticks and remove them. US measles cases surpass 1K, CDC reports Examine your entire body, including your head, paying close attention to arms and knees as ticks like moist, warm areas. Experts recommend wearing good-fitting socks, long pants, long sleeve shirts and bug repellents. To remove a tick, use tweezers and pull straight up, getting as close to the skin as possible. 'After we remove a tick, there's now a break in the skin, and just like any other break in the skin, we need to be careful to prevent a secondary bacterial infection,' said Dr. Christopher Bazzoli, an emergency medicine physician at Cleveland Clinic, in a statement. He said washing that area with warm and soapy water is 'really important.' Be sure to also check your pets for ticks. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
South Wales Guardian
23-04-2025
- Health
- South Wales Guardian
Lyme Disease: How to avoid tick bites and symptoms to spot
And the same is true for our pets, who will be ready to soak up the sunshine and warm weather by our side. But spending more time among nature means a heightened risk of tick bites, which can, in some cases, result in Lyme disease. May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month and the charity, Lyme Disease UK, is urging the public to look out for these dangerous arachnids which may carry the disease. (Image: Getty) Lyme disease is an infection caused by a spiral-shaped bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. The infection is predominantly spread to humans through the bite of an infected tick. Other infections that ticks can carry include Babesia, Bartonella, and rarely in the UK, the viral infection tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). Sometimes, ticks can transmit multiple infections through a single bite, and these can cause more severe symptoms and a more complicated clinical picture. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) estimates there are 1,500 laboratory confirmed cases of Lyme disease per year and between 1,000 and 2,000 more cases diagnosed clinically, although research published in 2019 showed that the real number could be at least three times higher. Doctors do not have to report diagnosed cases of Lyme disease unless patients have a positive blood test so the true number of cases is essentially unknown. Ticks have been found across every county of the UK and are mainly found in grassy areas and woodland, but have also been found in urban parks and gardens. It is estimated that up to 10% of ticks in the UK carry Lyme disease. Ticks vary in size and can be as small as a poppy seed, or as large as a baked bean after a blood meal. Ticks live in grassy areas and look for food by waiting on blades of grass for a human or animal to brush past so it can embed itself and feed. This activity is known as 'questing'. Ticks often crawl to warm, hidden parts of the body and can go unnoticed while feeding as the bites are painless. Symptoms of Lyme disease may have a delayed onset and can fluctuate. The most obvious sign of Lyme disease is an erythema migrans (EM) rash, often referred to as a bull's-eye rash. This is diagnostic of the infection and treatment should be started straight away, without needing to wait for a blood test. However, around a third of people with Lyme disease don't develop this rash and its appearance can be atypical. It doesn't always look like the classic ringed type rash, and can have a solid or bruise-like appearance and look very different on darker skins. The behaviour of any rash after a tick bite is the most important thing to be aware of. An erythema migrans rash takes at least three days, and in some cases up to 3 months, to appear. It generally isn't itchy, painful, or hot, and gradually spreads outwards. Redness or itchiness immediately after a tick bite is usually a histamine reaction. However, not everybody develops an EM rash, so it's important to look out for other possible symptoms of Lyme disease such as: 'summer flu', headaches, stiff neck, facial palsy (especially in children), fatigue, joint and muscle pain, and generally feeling very unwell. Behavioural changes in small children often indicate that a child is unwell, as they are unable to articulate how they are feeling. Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in the Northern Hemisphere. Infected ticks can be found in every county of the UK, but some areas are known to pose a higher risk, including the Scottish Highlands, South and South West England, and parts of East Anglia. Since the UK's first confirmed case in 1985, the recorded incidence of Lyme disease has steadily been increasing. The reasons for this are complex, but may be related to climate change, as well as changes in land management and biodiversity. Ticks carrying tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) have now been identified in the UK, however the risk is very low. Symptoms include flu-like illness, persistent headache, confusion and sensitivity to bright light. It's good practice to do a tick check anytime your dog returns from outdoors. Run your hands over their body, making sure to focus on areas like their head and ears, belly, and armpits. Try to feel for any small bumps on their skin. There are plenty of products out there that can help prevent tick bites. Look out for collars, sprays, and spot-on treatments, but be sure to only use products recommended by your vet. Tick treatment for dogs include chemicals that can be lethal for cats, and a treatment intended for cats may also be harmful to your dog. Your vet will recommend the right treatment for your specific pet. While ticks are more common in woodland areas, they can also be found in your garden. Make sure to keep the grass and vegetation in your garden cut short to avoid harbouring ticks.
Western Telegraph
23-04-2025
- Health
- Western Telegraph
Lyme Disease: How to avoid tick bites and symptoms to spot
And the same is true for our pets, who will be ready to soak up the sunshine and warm weather by our side. But spending more time among nature means a heightened risk of tick bites, which can, in some cases, result in Lyme disease. May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month and the charity, Lyme Disease UK, is urging the public to look out for these dangerous arachnids which may carry the disease. (Image: Getty) What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease is an infection caused by a spiral-shaped bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. The infection is predominantly spread to humans through the bite of an infected tick. Other infections that ticks can carry include Babesia, Bartonella, and rarely in the UK, the viral infection tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). Sometimes, ticks can transmit multiple infections through a single bite, and these can cause more severe symptoms and a more complicated clinical picture. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) estimates there are 1,500 laboratory confirmed cases of Lyme disease per year and between 1,000 and 2,000 more cases diagnosed clinically, although research published in 2019 showed that the real number could be at least three times higher. Doctors do not have to report diagnosed cases of Lyme disease unless patients have a positive blood test so the true number of cases is essentially unknown. Ticks have been found across every county of the UK and are mainly found in grassy areas and woodland, but have also been found in urban parks and gardens. It is estimated that up to 10% of ticks in the UK carry Lyme disease. Ticks vary in size and can be as small as a poppy seed, or as large as a baked bean after a blood meal. Ticks live in grassy areas and look for food by waiting on blades of grass for a human or animal to brush past so it can embed itself and feed. This activity is known as 'questing'. Ticks often crawl to warm, hidden parts of the body and can go unnoticed while feeding as the bites are painless. What are the symptoms of Lyme disease to look out for? Symptoms of Lyme disease may have a delayed onset and can fluctuate. The most obvious sign of Lyme disease is an erythema migrans (EM) rash, often referred to as a bull's-eye rash. This is diagnostic of the infection and treatment should be started straight away, without needing to wait for a blood test. However, around a third of people with Lyme disease don't develop this rash and its appearance can be atypical. It doesn't always look like the classic ringed type rash, and can have a solid or bruise-like appearance and look very different on darker skins. The behaviour of any rash after a tick bite is the most important thing to be aware of. An erythema migrans rash takes at least three days, and in some cases up to 3 months, to appear. It generally isn't itchy, painful, or hot, and gradually spreads outwards. Redness or itchiness immediately after a tick bite is usually a histamine reaction. However, not everybody develops an EM rash, so it's important to look out for other possible symptoms of Lyme disease such as: 'summer flu', headaches, stiff neck, facial palsy (especially in children), fatigue, joint and muscle pain, and generally feeling very unwell. Behavioural changes in small children often indicate that a child is unwell, as they are unable to articulate how they are feeling. Why is Lyme disease on the rise? Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in the Northern Hemisphere. Infected ticks can be found in every county of the UK, but some areas are known to pose a higher risk, including the Scottish Highlands, South and South West England, and parts of East Anglia. Since the UK's first confirmed case in 1985, the recorded incidence of Lyme disease has steadily been increasing. The reasons for this are complex, but may be related to climate change, as well as changes in land management and biodiversity. Ticks carrying tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) have now been identified in the UK, however the risk is very low. Symptoms include flu-like illness, persistent headache, confusion and sensitivity to bright light. How to protect your dogs from ticks Check pets after walks It's good practice to do a tick check anytime your dog returns from outdoors. Run your hands over their body, making sure to focus on areas like their head and ears, belly, and armpits. Try to feel for any small bumps on their skin. Use tick control products There are plenty of products out there that can help prevent tick bites. Look out for collars, sprays, and spot-on treatments, but be sure to only use products recommended by your vet. Never use tick control intended for cats on dogs, and vice versa Tick treatment for dogs include chemicals that can be lethal for cats, and a treatment intended for cats may also be harmful to your dog. Your vet will recommend the right treatment for your specific pet. Cut back the grass in your garden While ticks are more common in woodland areas, they can also be found in your garden. Make sure to keep the grass and vegetation in your garden cut short to avoid harbouring ticks.
South Wales Argus
22-04-2025
- Health
- South Wales Argus
Lyme Disease: How to avoid tick bites and symptoms to spot
And the same is true for our pets, who will be ready to soak up the sunshine and warm weather by our side. But spending more time among nature means a heightened risk of tick bites, which can, in some cases, result in Lyme disease. May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month and the charity, Lyme Disease UK, is urging the public to look out for these dangerous arachnids which may carry the disease. (Image: Getty) What is Lyme disease? Lyme disease is an infection caused by a spiral-shaped bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi. The infection is predominantly spread to humans through the bite of an infected tick. Other infections that ticks can carry include Babesia, Bartonella, and rarely in the UK, the viral infection tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). Sometimes, ticks can transmit multiple infections through a single bite, and these can cause more severe symptoms and a more complicated clinical picture. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) estimates there are 1,500 laboratory confirmed cases of Lyme disease per year and between 1,000 and 2,000 more cases diagnosed clinically, although research published in 2019 showed that the real number could be at least three times higher. Doctors do not have to report diagnosed cases of Lyme disease unless patients have a positive blood test so the true number of cases is essentially unknown. Ticks have been found across every county of the UK and are mainly found in grassy areas and woodland, but have also been found in urban parks and gardens. It is estimated that up to 10% of ticks in the UK carry Lyme disease. Ticks vary in size and can be as small as a poppy seed, or as large as a baked bean after a blood meal. Ticks live in grassy areas and look for food by waiting on blades of grass for a human or animal to brush past so it can embed itself and feed. This activity is known as 'questing'. Ticks often crawl to warm, hidden parts of the body and can go unnoticed while feeding as the bites are painless. What are the symptoms of Lyme disease to look out for? Symptoms of Lyme disease may have a delayed onset and can fluctuate. The most obvious sign of Lyme disease is an erythema migrans (EM) rash, often referred to as a bull's-eye rash. This is diagnostic of the infection and treatment should be started straight away, without needing to wait for a blood test. However, around a third of people with Lyme disease don't develop this rash and its appearance can be atypical. It doesn't always look like the classic ringed type rash, and can have a solid or bruise-like appearance and look very different on darker skins. The behaviour of any rash after a tick bite is the most important thing to be aware of. An erythema migrans rash takes at least three days, and in some cases up to 3 months, to appear. It generally isn't itchy, painful, or hot, and gradually spreads outwards. Redness or itchiness immediately after a tick bite is usually a histamine reaction. However, not everybody develops an EM rash, so it's important to look out for other possible symptoms of Lyme disease such as: 'summer flu', headaches, stiff neck, facial palsy (especially in children), fatigue, joint and muscle pain, and generally feeling very unwell. Behavioural changes in small children often indicate that a child is unwell, as they are unable to articulate how they are feeling. Why is Lyme disease on the rise? Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in the Northern Hemisphere. Infected ticks can be found in every county of the UK, but some areas are known to pose a higher risk, including the Scottish Highlands, South and South West England, and parts of East Anglia. Since the UK's first confirmed case in 1985, the recorded incidence of Lyme disease has steadily been increasing. The reasons for this are complex, but may be related to climate change, as well as changes in land management and biodiversity. Ticks carrying tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) have now been identified in the UK, however the risk is very low. Symptoms include flu-like illness, persistent headache, confusion and sensitivity to bright light. How to protect your dogs from ticks Check pets after walks It's good practice to do a tick check anytime your dog returns from outdoors. Run your hands over their body, making sure to focus on areas like their head and ears, belly, and armpits. Try to feel for any small bumps on their skin. Use tick control products There are plenty of products out there that can help prevent tick bites. Look out for collars, sprays, and spot-on treatments, but be sure to only use products recommended by your vet. Never use tick control intended for cats on dogs, and vice versa Tick treatment for dogs include chemicals that can be lethal for cats, and a treatment intended for cats may also be harmful to your dog. Your vet will recommend the right treatment for your specific pet. Cut back the grass in your garden While ticks are more common in woodland areas, they can also be found in your garden. Make sure to keep the grass and vegetation in your garden cut short to avoid harbouring ticks.
