As Lyme disease continues to pose significant health risks, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is urging the public to heed its warnings. The bacterial infection, spread by blacklegged ticks, can lead to severe complications if untreated, making awareness and prevention crucial.

According to the Alabama Public Health website, there are not many cases of Lyme disease due to Alabama being considered low-incidence, but that does not mean we can let our guard down as cases have been reported. Alabama Public Health said that cases happen more between March and October when ticks are active in Alabama.

Lyme disease, caused primarily by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and occasionally by Borrelia mayonii, manifests through symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue and a distinctive skin rash called erythema migrans. If left untreated, the infection can progress to affect the joints, heart, and nervous system, resulting in severe complications including arthritis, facial paralysis, and irregular heartbeats.

The CDC emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment. Laboratory tests, when used appropriately and with FDA-cleared tests, can aid in diagnosis. Most cases can be successfully treated with a few weeks of antibiotics.

To prevent Lyme disease, the CDC advises taking precautions against tick bites. This includes avoiding tick-infested areas, using insect repellent and performing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors. In the event of a tick bite, removing the tick promptly and consulting a healthcare provider if symptoms develop can reduce the risk of infection.

The CDC continues to combat Lyme disease through a comprehensive program that includes maintaining national surveillance data, conducting epidemiologic investigations, offering diagnostic services and developing prevention strategies. Education efforts aim to inform both the public and healthcare providers about the risks and prevention of Lyme disease.

For more information on Lyme disease symptoms, testing and prevention, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov.