May Designated As Lyme Disease Awareness Month

The USDA Dietary Guidelines suggest that adults devote 60 minutes each day to exercise for weight control and cardiovascular benefits. With the arrival of Spring, many people choose to spend that time walking or hiking outdoors. Paramus Health Officer John Hopper reminds them to be aware of the risk for Lyme disease when walking through grass or past bushes. Lyme Disease is caused by the bite of a tiny deer tick, which feeds on animals and people. Most cases are found in northeastern states during the spring months, when the tick is active. Lyme Disease may not be detected until symptoms begin, which may be days to weeks after the bite has occurred.

The early phase of Lyme Disease often begins with a characteristic bull’s eye rash, which is a red circle or oval with clearly defined edges; it may be itchy, warm or tender and may grow larger and pale in the center. For many people, that may be the only warning they will get; others will find that in addition to the rash they may experience fever, headache, fatigue or muscle and joint pain. Prompt treatment with antibiotics can prevent joint pain and swelling, and/or cardiac and nervous system disorders from developing, as well as more serious health problems. If you have any of these symptoms or have had a tick bite, call your physician for advice.

Although it may be impossible to totally prevent tick bites, those who spend time outdoors can limit their exposure in the following ways:
• Wear light colored clothing so that ticks can be spotted easily
• Tuck your slacks into your socks and wear long sleeves to make it difficult for the ticks to climb onto your skin
• Try to stay on the path and away from tall grass and leaves
• Check yourself and your family members for ticks after all outdoors activities

• Use insect repellant with care on children and follow package directions

Should you find a tick attached to your skin, don’t panic! Using a tweezer, grasp the tick’s mouthparts as close to the skin as possible and use firm and steady backwards pressure to remove it. Never try to smother the tick with chemicals or try to burn it-you may further injure the skin. Finally, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and apply antiseptic. If symptoms develop, phone your doctor for advice.
Board of Health member Frank Ohlendorf advises residents that additional information on Lyme Disease may be received by contacting the Board of Health at 201-265-2100, Ext. 615 or 618.