CHECK: demystify myths about Lyme disease



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GREAT RAPIDS, Mich. –

It is the time of year when ticks are really fashionable.

The bite of Lyme disease is threatened by some tick bites, but there is a lot of misinformation.

Our VERIFY team visited Spectrum Health and spoke with Dr. Christina Fahlsing, an infectious disease physician, who reported seeing a higher number of cases of Lyme disease each year.

We will address 5 questions on this topic.

1. Can all types of ticks carry Lyme disease?

"No, only the blacklegged tick, also known as the deer tick, can have Lyme disease," said Dr. Fahlsing.

These ticks have a brown body and black legs.

2. Will all people with Lyme disease develop a rash?

"No," said Dr. Fahlsing. "80% of people who contract Lyme disease will have a rash, leaving 20 to 30% of people who do not have it."

Do not forget that you can still develop a rash due to a tick bite and not have Lyme disease.

3. Is it true that a single test to detect Lyme disease might not be accurate?

"That's right, yes," said Dr. Fahlsing. "In general, we do a series of two tests, and you have to make sure that both tests become positive."

4. Can antibiotics completely prevent Lyme disease if you catch it on time?

"Yes, if you go out and you bite the tick … if you remove it immediately, within 24 hours, and if it is not full of blood, you run a very low risk of developing Lyme disease Said Dr. Fahlsing. I said.

If a deer tick has been attached to you for more than one day, consult your doctor immediately as he may take preventive measures within 72 hours of the bite.

"You can get a dose of antibiotics to stop you from contracting Lyme disease," said Dr. Fahlsing, "if you miss this window, or if you're not one to like seeing a doctor and to develop a rash or symptoms, go see your doctor and you can get an antibiotic treatment that will completely cure the infection. "

5. Can you catch Lyme disease from people, pets, or food?

"You can not get Lyme disease from these places," said Dr. Fahlsing, "but you can still have a tick on your pet."

If you wonder, dogs can also contract Lyme disease. It is therefore important to also consult your pets and make sure that they are aware of the flea and tick prevention measures.

To protect yourself, wear boots and long pants if you are in wooded or grassy areas, and use an anti-ticks. Also be aware that not all mosquito repellents will deter ticks.

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