Lyme Disease Prevention

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- The Public Health Department is warning hunters as tick-borne Lyme diseases increase in the state.

Lyme disease is a bacterial disease that is transmitted to humans through bites from deer ticks that are already infected. Many people experience different symptoms from tick bites and often mistake them for the flu. Diana Zaato, an Epidemiologist at the Muskingum County Public Health Department, said it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms.

“The affects of Lyme disease on the body can be very severe through inconsequential effects just depending on how severe the case is. For some people initially when you get exposed to it you experience a rash and there are some fever. There might be pain in the joints. If that is diagnosed and treated early you typically go on to lead a normal healthy life.”

Zaato said there are ways to protect yourself from tick bites. When outdoors you should walk in the center of trails and paths, always tuck your pants into your boots and your shirts into your pants to prevent ticks from getting inside of your clothing. And shower immediately after returning from indoors.

“When you talk about prevention I think the first and foremost is making sure you’re using your repellent when you go out.”

Zaato said there are repellent’s that can be applied to either the skin or the clothing. Ones that go directly onto the skin are: deet, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus. One that can be applied to your clothing is: permethrin.

You should also check your pets for ticks as they can also get Lyme Disease. They can’t however transmit the disease to you.