Cases of Lyme Disease Expected to Rise in 2017

Lyme disease is one of the most widely misdiagnosed illnesses in the country, and people are being warned that cases of the disease may reach record numbers this year. Here’s why, according to reports.

Two years ago, there were more acorns than usual in the northeast portion of the United States. This led to an increase in the population of white-footed mice. That, in turn, led to an increase in the population of ticks who feed on the mice, picking up the bacteria that cause Lyme disease as they fed.

Scientists say that Lyme disease season has begun, and the risk is high. What is important to understand is that a tick must first attach itself to a human and then remain attached for a minimum of 36 hours before the disease can be transmitted. Lyme disease is not transmitted as soon as a tick bites.

When treated quickly, Lyme disease can be taken care of with antibiotics. When it is left undetected, it can lead to serious health problems. The biggest problem in the northeast is the deer tick. These ticks will attach to just about any animal, including humans and their pets.

One of the easiest ways to prevent Lyme disease is to reduce your exposure to ticks. If you have dogs, make sure they are on a flea and tick preventive year round, and spray yourself with a tick repellent before any walks in woods or tall grasses and weeds. Perform a tick check on yourself and your pets before getting in your car or walking back into your house.

If you experience symptoms of Lyme disease this spring and summer, including headache, nausea and fever, see a doctor. If you are misdiagnosed and need an attorney in New York to represent you, reach out to our team for a free case evaluation.