Lyme Disease Prevention

Lyme disease is a special topic to me because my father was diagnosed with chronic Lyme disease many years ago. Ultimately, had to retire from being a police officer because the disease disabled him to the point he was unable to effectively perform his job duties. Many people do not know, or understand, what Lyme disease is. You should know this serious disease needs immediate treatment to avoid long-term health effects, and can be prevented with a few simple steps.

According to healthline, Lyme disease is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. B. burgdorferi is transmitted to humans by a bite from an infected black-legged or deer tick. The tick becomes infected after feeding on infected deer or mice. A tick has to be present on the skin for 24 to 48 hours to transmit the infection. Most people with Lyme disease have no memory of a tick bite. People who live or spend time in wooded areas are more likely to get this illness. People with domesticated animals that are let out in wooded areas also have a higher risk of contracting Lyme disease.

Below are some tips on how to prevent Lyme disease:

• Wear long pants and long-sleeve shirts when outdoors
• Clear wooded areas around your yard, keep underbrush to a minimum, and put woodpiles in areas with lots of sun
• Wear insect repellent with 10 percent DEET, it will protect you for a period of about two hours. Please note: Do not use more DEET than what is required for the time you will be outside, and do not use DEET on the hands of young children or on the faces of children less than 2 months old. Oil of lemon eucalyptus gives the same protection as DEET when used in similar concentrations, but should not be used on children under the age of 3 years old.
• Check your children, pets, and yourself for ticks after you spend time outdoors. People and pets can get Lyme disease more than once.
• If you spot a tick, you can remove them with tweezers. Apply the tweezers near the head or the mouth, and pull gently. Check to be certain that all tick parts have been removed. And be sure to contact your doctor if a tick bites you or your loved ones.

Have Questions?

Campbell County Health's Wellness works to reduce health risks and promote overall wellness among employee groups and individuals across the northeastern Wyoming region. To learn more about Wellness, please visit www.cchwyo.org/Wellness or call 307.688.8051.

Reba Borden works at CCH Wellness as a Technician and Phlebotomist