Summer’s arrival brings beauty and health risks.

Know how to protect yourself from Lyme disease

With summer’s warmth comes the urge to enjoy nature—but also the return of ticks, which can spread serious illnesses like Lyme disease.

Understanding Lyme disease

Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium passed through an infected tick’s bite. Early symptoms can feel like the flu—fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic circular rash. If untreated, Lyme disease can lead to severe complications affecting the heart, joints, and nervous system.

Treatment and recovery

Most people recover fully from Lyme disease with a 2- to 4-week course of antibiotics. However, for some, symptoms may linger, including fatigue, body aches, and cognitive difficulties, even after treatment. These persistent symptoms are known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS).

Managing persistent symptoms

If your symptoms continue after treatment, talk with your doctor to determine if your symptoms are related to Lyme disease or another underlying condition.

Preventing Lyme disease

To reduce the risk of Lyme disease, take precautions when outdoors in areas where ticks are common:

• Wear long sleeves and pants.
• Use insect repellent containing DEET.
• Stay on cleared trails.
• Check your clothes and body for ticks.

Find more information about protecting yourself from tick-transmitted diseases on our website.