Lyme Disease (6513)

Lyme disease is carried by the blacklegged tick, formerly called the deer tick, in this area. Lyme disease is caused by bacteria transmitted by the bite of an infected tick. Most people become ill in the summer when the blacklegged tick nymphs are active. An expanding rash at the site of the tick bite is the most common sign of Lyme disease. The rash generally has a reddish edge with more normal colored skin in the center. Not everyone who contracts Lyme disease develops this rash. Other early symptoms of illness are similar to the flu: headache, mild fever, muscle and joint aches, and fatigue. The rash or flu-like symptoms usually develop within 1 month of the tick bite. Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics. Please see your doctor promptly if you suspect Lyme disease.

Your physician, county and state health departments also have detailed information on Lyme disease.

For more informaton, please visit this Penn State Website.

Penn State Entomoloy Dept.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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