The illness can cause flu-like symptoms, and if left untreated, can cause severe long-term medical problems, the CDC said, but, if caught early, it’s easily treatable with antibiotics.
There’s a greater risk for catching Lyme disease when camping, hiking, working or playing in wooded and grassy areas.
But there are some easy ways of reducing tick bites. Be aware of your environment during outdoor activities and avoid walking through tall bushes and overgrown vegetation. Use an insect repellent on skin or clothing containing 20 percent or more of DEET. Perform daily tick checks if you’re vacationing or live in a high-risk area. Check your pets for ticks.
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If you find a tick on your body, remove it quickly with a pair of tweezers. If the tick has been on you for less than 24 hours, your chances of contracting Lyme disease are small, but watch for any signs of the illness, like rash or fever.
If you experience any symptoms of the disease, see your doctor immediately.
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