Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, December 14, 1993 TAG: 9312140164
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C-4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE:
DATELINE: LENGTH: Short
Lyme disease is the most common tick-born disease in the United States. Discovered in Old Lyme, Conn., the disease has been reported in the Northeast, Middle Atlantic states, North Central states and Northern California.
Early symptoms include a "bull's eye" rash that appears days or weeks after a tick bite. Flu-like symptoms, including stiff neck, chills, fever and fatigue, sometimes accompany the rash. Oral antibiotics have been successful in early treatment.
Left untreated, the disease causes serious nerve system or heart problems, and can lead to painful intermittent bouts of arthritis.
Avoid ticks
Wear protective, light clothing when walking in wooded areas. Long-sleeved shirts and pants tucked into boots or shoes are good precautions.
Pay attention to your pets
The tick that carries Lyme disease is small and can easily bite pets that roam over woods or marshy areas. When ticks are active, mainly between March and October, make sure to check pets daily for signs of ticks. Your veterinarian may also recommend a repellant or collar.
Signs of Lyme disease in pets include fever; swollen, hot painful joints; lameness; and poor appetite.
For More Information, contact:
The Arthritis Foundation, (800) 283-7800.
Centers for Disease Control, which offers recorded information on Lyme disease, (404) 332-4555.
Your state and local health departments.
by CNB