It's becoming more common...

Lyme's Disease



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Way back, when I instructed First Aid, we received the precautionary memorandum from our Provincial Office warning about the possibility of Lyme's Disease in our area. It was a precautionary measure because at that time it was only discovered in British Columbia - thousands of miles away from our Province. That was then. But now it is a threat everywhere and increasingly so.

Lyme's disease, also known as Lyme borreliosis, is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the Borrelia type which is spread by ticks. The most common sign of infection is an expanding area of redness on the skin, known as erythema migrans, that begins at the site of a tick bite about a week after it has occurred.

Up to 20 percent of Lyme disease cases can cause lasting symptoms, including arthritis in the joints, cognitive difficulties, chronic fatigue, and sleep disturbances, even after antibiotic treatment, according to the CDC. This condition is known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS).

To prevent Lyme's Disease here are some simply suggestions.

1. Use a chemical repellent with DEET, permethrin or picaridin.
2. Wear light-colored protective clothing.
3. Tuck pant legs into socks.
4. Avoid tick-infested areas.
5. Check yourself, your children, and your pets daily for ticks and carefully remove any ticks.

 

One problem in camping is the presence of insects particularly those that are harmful like mosquitoes that can give you malaria or dengue. That's why bringing along insect repellent is a necessity especially when the camp site is inside a forest. Better to be safe than sorry.