Lyme Disease
Spread by deer ticks and western black-legged ticks, Lyme disease is a serious illness with two stages. The first stage is a circular rash around the bite. This rash appears three days to a month later, with symptoms like fever, chills, fatigue, headache, and joint and muscle pain. Without antibiotic treatment, victims develop rashes, weakness, stiff and swollen joints, an abnormal heartbeat, extreme fatigue and nervous system problems. The second stage involves neurological symptoms and arthritis.Ticks live in areas that are wooded or have tall grass. According to Health Canada, those at a greater risk of Lyme disease are those who are golfing, hiking, fishing, camping and hunting.Consult your local public health office about infestations. When visiting these places, wear insect repellent with DEET, long sleeves that fit wrists closely, long pants tucked into your socks, and close-toed footwear. Health Canada says Lyme disease can be treated effectively in 2 to 4 weeks with antibiotics.Do a daily tick check.To remove ticks, use tweezers to grasp the head and mouth parts as close to the skin as you can, and slowly pull without squishing or twisting. Wash the site with soap and water, and save the bug in a container or sandwich bag. For more information, visit Health Canada. If you experience any symptoms, contact a doctor.