What is Lyme disease, and how can I keep from getting it?

Dear Breanna:

Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria spread by the bite of an infected deer tick. Infected ticks are found on deer, birds, and rodents. Unfortunately, the ticks are difficult to see. They are not much larger than the period at the end of this sentence.

The disease can cause painful joints hearing loss, paralysis, or heart problems. Most people first develop a rash that looks like a raised, red circle with a clear center. It can appear a few days to a month after a person is bitten by an infected tick. After the rash appears, many people feel like they have the flu.

See your doctor as soon as possible for treatment if you have Lyme disease. Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics, and prompt treatment can prevent more serious problems. Vaccines are being developed to prevent this disease, but they are not yet available.

Luckily, not all ticks are infected, so you shouldn't let them spoil your outdoor summer fun.