Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. The ticks that transmit Lyme disease can occasionally transmit other tick-borne diseases as well. Lyme disease currently affects more Princetonians than any other disease or illness per year. On average, Lyme disease is diagnosed in 40 Princeton residents annually.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans. If left untreated, the 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.
Testing
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 antibiotics.
Prevent Lyme Disease
Steps to prevent Lyme disease include:
- Applying pesticides
- Reducing tick habitat
- Removing ticks promptly
- Using insect repellent