Ixodes pacificus
Ixodes scapularis
The first symptom of Lyme disease appears 3 to 30 days after the tick bite: a circular rash (erythema migrans) around the site the bite. It develops into a characteristic “bull’s eye” with a clear center that can be up to 12 inches in diameter. Patients also experience painful lymph node swelling, joint pain (arthralgia), chills, fever, headache, muscle aches (myalgia) and other non-specific symptoms. Left untreated, the infection can lead to more serious symptoms such as drooping of the face (Bell’s palsy), heart palpitations, dizziness, severe headaches and joint pain. After several months, approximately half of all patients with untreated Lyme disease develop arthritis in large joints as well as chronic neurological problems, including cognitive difficulties.
“bull’s-eye” rash typical of Lyme disease
Is there a vaccine for Lyme disease? Since 1998, there has been a FDA-approved vaccine for Lyme disease. However, this vaccine does not provide complete protection against all strains of the bacteria that cause Lyme disease. Therefore, protective measures should be taken—even by those who have been vaccinated.
How can I protect myself from Lyme disease? You should take measures to prevent tick bites, particularly if you are planning on being in wooded areas where the carrier ticks are common. Insect Shield® Repellent Apparel is effective in repelling ticks, including the kind that can carry Lyme disease. We especially recommend Insect Shield socks and pants for tick protection, but other items of Insect Shield clothing can also prove helpful in thickly wooded areas.