A disease which is transmitted by tick bites. The first sign is an area of redness surrounding the tick bite, followed by fever, headache, lethargy, muscle aches and swollen joints. If the disease is not treated early, the heart and nervous system can also be affected.

Prevention

cover yourself up when outside in grass, woodland, scrub and caves. Wear shoes, socks, long trousers, a shirt and a hat.

use insect repellent, particularly around the ankles.

check yourself for ticks before going inside. Wearing light clothing will help you see them, brush them off any clothing.

when inside inspect the skin, scalp and pubic hair area for ticks, tiny specks that cling to the skin. Inspect children daily during the summer.

put a tick collar on pets to prevent the parasite entering the house.

Treatment

if you find a tick on your body do not try to pull it out or scrub it off, as its mouthpart will still remain in your flesh. Instead hold a lighted match to the tick and it will drop off. Wash the bite with soap and water.

keep an eye on the bite in the next few weeks. If you see redness developing around the area, consult your doctor immediately.

Orthodox

if diagnosed before joint swelling occurs, antibiotics will clear up Lyme disease. If inflammation has set in your doctor will recommend non steriodal inflammatory drugs and sometimes corticiosteroids.