Lyme disease is an infectious disease that can result from a bite or other form of contact, and can cause everything from a rash and abrasions to central nervous system problems and cardiovascular problems in the most severe cases.  Lyme disease is a serious disease, and one which is often overlooked.  For all of that, however, there are ways to protect yourself.

Here are just three methods of effective protection that can help ensure that you don’t have to take Lyme disease tragically, or at all:

Deer Ticks and Lyme Disease

Ticks, especially deer ticks and other forms of the insect native to the Appalachia and Northern Virginia area, are among the most common causes of Lyme disease.  As such, avoiding heavily-wooded or bushy areas, walking in the center or trails, and wearing bug repellant with 20-30% DEET on long nature walks can all be effective ways of preventing Lyme disease.

Rodents and Lyme Disease

In addition to ticks, rodents can also carry Lyme disease.  As with deer ticks, you’ll want to steer clear of rodents, and call an exterminator or animal control expert if you find them in or around your home.

Lyme Disease Detection

One of the most important factors in combatting any kind of disease or condition is to make sure that you are diagnosed and treated at the first sign of trouble.  There are a wide variety of symptoms to watch out for; if you find yourself experiencing itchiness, redness, headaches, and, especially a rash which appears on your skin in a bull’s-eye you should contact a doctor immediately.