Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria. This bacterium is transmitted to humans by infected ticks.
Ticks are very small critters, but they can carry the harmful bacteria that causes Lyme disease. This bacterium is called Borrelia burgdorferi in full and can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick.
Once the body is infected, the bacteria penetrate the bloodstream and start to multiply. As the infection progresses, symptoms develop. Most people develop a rash in the form of growing rings.
The incubation period (that is, the time between infection with and outbreak of the disease) can vary between 3 and 30 days. Some infected people do not have symptoms, but others develop a fever, headache and aching muscles and joints. The symptoms can also spread to the nervous system and heart.
Infection with this bacterium can have a lasting effect on the body, in the form of chronic joint inflammation and, 2 or 3 years after the infection, nerve damage.
Consult your doctor if you develop any of these symptoms. To prevent Lyme disease, it is wise to regularly check for ticks on your body if you are in a wooded area, where these insects are common. If you live in such an environment, you can ask your doctor about how you can best protect yourself against this infection.
