Healthy Living - Flea bites not only cause skin rashes and itching, but certain types of ticks can also transmit Lyme disease. This tick bite can lead to symptoms such as muscle aches, fatigue, headaches, and stiff neck. Although rare in Indonesia, you are still at risk for this disease. Here are some factors that increase the risk of Lyme disease.
A Glimpse of Lyme Disease
Lyme disease occurs when the bacteria Borrelia afzelii and Borrelia garinii enter the body through tick bites. Symptoms typically appear within 3 to 30 days after being bitten.
Without treatment, the rash can spread, and severe joint pain may develop within a few months. In some cases, Lyme disease can cause muscle movement disorders, facial paralysis, and weakness in the limbs.
Severe Infections Can Spread to the Brain
If left untreated, Lyme disease can spread to the brain, causing meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain) and disrupting the heart rhythm.
Factors That Increase the Risk of Lyme Disease
According to Health Line, most cases of Lyme disease occur between May and August. To prevent the spread of Lyme infection, health experts recommend taking preventive measures. Here are some risk factors:
1. Playing in Grassy Areas
"Many ticks that carry the Lyme-causing bacteria are found in tall grasses," says Dr. Amy Edwards, chair of infection control at Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital in Cleveland.
Ticks prefer damp, shaded areas and are often found on the underside of dense leaves. Playing or camping in areas with tall grass increases the risk of tick bites.
To reduce risk, avoid letting children play in bushes and choose camping spots in open areas without dense foliage.
2. Not Knowing the Type of Tick That Causes Lyme Disease
Not recognizing the type of tick that transmits Lyme disease can increase your risk. When visiting parks or gardens, you may encounter various insects, including ticks, and unknowingly allow them to remain on your skin.
The ticks that cause Lyme disease include the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis) and the Western black-legged tick (Ixodes pacificus). These ticks are small, ranging from 2 mm (nymphs) to about the size of a sesame seed, with an orange body.
These ticks do not fly or jump, but they move to your skin through direct contact, such as touching a leaf or sitting in dense foliage. If you spot these ticks on your skin, remove them immediately.
3. Sleeping with Pets
Ticks can also move through furry pets, such as dogs and cats, particularly if you sleep with them. Sharing a bed with pets increases the risk of ticks transferring to you, potentially leading to Lyme disease.
To prevent this, maintain your pet’s hygiene by regularly bathing them.
