Which ticks cause lyme

Like so many other infections, Lyme disease is perfectly treatable. No, not all ticks can transmit Lyme disease. In this area, only Ixodes scapularis ticks,also called deer ticks, can spread Lyme disease, and only if the tick is infected with Borrelia burgdorferi , the bacteria that causes Lyme disease.

Even after a bite from an infected tick, it must be attached long enough — usually more than 36 hours — to spread the infection to a person. First, remove the tick with a pair of tweezers. Grasp the tick close to the skin and pull directly upwards until the tick comes free.

Try to remove the tick whole. If you do, it is likely the tick will still be alive and moving. Your body will take care of whatever is left over. Place the tick in a plastic bag or other sealed container. Try to identify what kind of tick it is that bit you.

If you are not sure what type of tick bit you, it is best to bring it to your doctor or someone else who can identify ticks. After any tick bite, you should monitor your health. Lyme disease is difficult to diagnose because symptoms are not consistent and may mimic other conditions.

Diagnosis for Lyme disease must be made by a healthcare provider experienced in recognizing Lyme disease. Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms and a history of a tick bite. Testing is generally done to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. This may need blood and other lab tests.

The symptoms of Lyme disease may look like other medical conditions or problems. Always talk with your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. Lyme disease affects people differently. Relapse and incomplete treatment responses happen. Complications of untreated early-stage disease include:. People aren't able to become immune to Lyme disease. So even if you've had Lyme disease, you can get it again. No vaccine is available currently to prevent the disease.

The FDA still recommended preventing the disease in other ways. Spray the DEET repellent on exposed skin, including your legs and hands. Avoid your face, but be sure to protect your neck. Then, tuck your pants into your socks. And, on your hike, remember to avoid areas where those questing ticks may be perched. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version.

Overview Lyme disease is caused by four main species of bacteria. Lyme disease rash Open pop-up dialog box Close. Lyme disease rash People with Lyme disease might get a characteristic bull's-eye rash. Request an Appointment at Mayo Clinic. Deer tick Open pop-up dialog box Close. Deer tick The deer tick Ixodes scapularis goes through three life stages. Gregory Poland, M. While you're enjoying a hike, ticks are looking for a ride. Leave them out to dry, and, then, the next day, wear them. Stay in the middle.

Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Lyme disease. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed Sept. Pitt BS, et al. Identification of a novel pathogenic Borrelia species causing Lyme borreliosis with unusually high spirochaetaemia: A descriptive study. The rash erythema migrans expands slowly over days and can spread to 12 inches 30 centimeters across. It is typically not itchy or painful.

If untreated, new signs and symptoms of Lyme infection might appear in the following weeks to months. These include erytyema mirgrans, joint paint, nausea and vomiting, diffuse rash and neurological problems. Several weeks after infection, some people develop heart problems, eye inflammation, liver inflammation hepatitis and severe fatigue. Scholarship Sani Marc Scholarship. About Us. Chapter Websites. Hill Day. National Infection Control Week.