Revisiting Lyme Disease - Prevention Is Better Than Cure
Understanding Lyme Disease and Its Prevention
Lyme disease is an infectious disease caused by bacteria called Borrelia Burgdorferi (B. burgdorferi) that is transmitted to humans through a tick bite. It can cause fever, headaches, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash. If left untreated, complications can include joint pain, heart palpitations, and neurological problems.
The best way to prevent Lyme Disease is to avoid tick bites. This can be done by avoiding tall grass, wooded areas, and other areas where ticks may be present. If you do spend time outdoors, it is important to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks. It is also important to check yourself and your pets for ticks after returning from an outdoor activity.
Another way to prevent Lyme Disease is by using insect repellent that contains DEET. This should be applied to the skin and clothing according to product instructions. Additionally, it is important to take extra caution during peak tick season which usually occurs between late spring and early summer in most regions of the United States.
Vaccines For Ticks
In addition to personal prevention measures, there are certain vaccines available that can help protect against Lyme Disease. The United States currently has two FDA-approved vaccines that are recommended for people between the ages of 15 and 70 who are at a higher risk of developing Lyme Disease.
The two vaccines available are Recombinant OspA Lyme Vaccine (LYMErix, marketed in the U.S. by SmithKline Beecham) and Outer Surface Protein A (OspA) Vaccine (Imovax Lyme, marketed in the U.S. by Aventis Pasteur). They require two doses of the vaccine and must be administered at least one month apart for full protection against Lyme Disease.
Conclusion
Prevention is always better than cure, so taking the steps to protect yourself from Lyme Disease is essential. Avoiding tick bites, using DEET-containing insect repellents, and getting vaccinated are all effective measures that will help reduce your risk of developing Lyme Disease.