Living in tick-infested areas like New Jersey, Lyme Disease is a significant concern—especially during the spring and summer when these pests are most active. Lyme Disease is the most frequently diagnosed tick-borne illness in the United States and can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Understanding Lyme Disease, its transmission, and effective protection methods is crucial for staying safe.
What Is Lyme Disease And How Does It Spread?
Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. It’s the most common vector-borne disease in the United States, and it can have serious health implications if left untreated.
Lyme disease primarily spreads through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks. These tiny parasites are found in wooded and grassy areas, where they latch onto hosts, including humans, to feed on blood. Once a tick is attached, it can transmit the bacteria into the bloodstream and trigger the onset of early Lyme Disease symptoms.
Lyme Disease Symptoms
Recognizing the symptoms of Lyme disease early is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. Lyme disease can present a wide range of symptoms that often mimic other illnesses, making it challenging to diagnose. Here are some common symptoms to watch for:
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Joint pain
- Rash, especially near the bite
- Neck stiffness
- Swollen lymph nodes
If left untreated, Lyme disease can spread to other parts of the body, leading to chronic joint inflammation, neurological problems, and heart rhythm irregularities. Treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics, which is most effective when started early in the infection. Early intervention can alleviate symptoms quickly and prevent the disease from progressing to more severe stages.
Is Lyme Disease Common in New Jersey?
Lyme disease is a significant health concern in New Jersey, with the state consistently ranking among the highest in the country for reported cases. In 2022, New Jersey recorded 5,897 human cases of Lyme disease, reflecting the updated reporting practices by the CDC that now only require laboratory evidence of infection.
The prevalence of Lyme disease in New Jersey can be attributed to several factors, including the state's wooded areas and the presence of deer and white-footed mice, which are primary hosts for the ticks that spread the disease. Most cases occur between April and October, with a notable peak in June and July.
How to Prevent Lyme Disease
Avoiding tick bites is the best way to prevent Lyme Disease, as well as other tick-borne illnesses such as ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. But, doing so isn’t always easy. While you can try bite prevention tips like wearing long pants when outdoors and using tick repellants, it’s difficult to avoid ticks if your area is completely infested.
That’s why at Cooper Pest Solutions, we recommend taking a proactive approach that includes tick control throughout the year. Eliminating as many ticks as possible is the best way to keep you and your pets safe from ticks even during peak season. If you want to know how our tick control plans work or you’re ready to schedule an appointment, give us a call today.
