LYME DISEASE

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A case of Lyme disease caused by Borrelia bacteria has been reported in Koovapady, Ernakulam district of Kerala.

What is Lyme disease?

• Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and rarely, Borrelia mayonii.
• It is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks.
• Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans.
• If left untreated, infection can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system.
• Lyme disease is diagnosed based on symptoms, physical findings (e.g., rash), and the possibility of exposure to infected ticks.
• Laboratory testing is helpful if used correctly and performed with validated methods.
• Most cases of Lyme disease can be treated successfully with a few weeks of
• Steps to prevent Lyme disease include using insect repellent, removing ticks promptly, applying pesticides, and reducing tick habitat.
• The ticks that transmit Lyme disease can occasionally transmit other tickborne diseases as well.
• Lyme disease cannot spread: between humans, from pets to humans, through air, food, or water Lice, mosquitoes, fleas, and flies also do not transmit it.