As we embrace the beauty of nature, it’s important to be aware of potential health risks lurking in the great outdoors. One significant concern is Lyme illness, a tick-borne disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. Here’s an in-depth look at Lyme illness, its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
What is Lyme Illness?
Lyme illness, commonly known as Lyme disease, is the most prevalent vector-borne illness in the United States and Europe. It is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks (Ixodes scapularis), in the eastern and north-central United States, and by western black-legged ticks (Ixodes pacificus) on the Pacific Coast.
Can I get Lyme disease from a dog tick?
No, you cannot get Lyme disease from a dog tick. However, different types of ticks can bite humans and transmit various diseases. Here are some common ticks in North America and the diseases they can transmit:
American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis):
- Diseases transmitted: Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia.
- Geographic distribution: Found primarily in the eastern United States and along the Pacific coast.
- Appearance: Larger than black-legged ticks, with a brown body and white or gray markings on their back.
Black-legged Tick (Ixodes scapularis):
- Diseases transmitted: Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, Powassan virus, Borrelia miyamotoi infection.
- Geographic distribution: Common in the northeastern, mid-Atlantic, and north-central United States.
- Appearance: Small, reddish-brown with a darker shield on their back.
Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum):
- Diseases transmitted: Ehrlichiosis, tularemia, Heartland virus, STARI (Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness), and meat allergy (alpha-gal syndrome).
- Appearance: Reddish-brown with a distinct white spot on the back of adult females.
Different species of ticks have different host preferences and habitats, affecting which pathogens they may carry and transmit. The American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) is another common tick species in the United States. Unlike black-legged ticks, dog ticks are larger and have a reddish-brown body with distinctive white or gray markings. They are found primarily in grassy fields and along walkways and trails, particularly in the eastern United States and along the Pacific coast.
While dog ticks can carry and transmit diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia, they are not known vectors for Lyme disease. The bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi does not typically reside in dog ticks, which means they do not transmit Lyme disease to humans.
Why Dog Ticks Do Not Transmit Lyme Disease:
- Pathogen Specificity: The bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease, is primarily found in black-legged ticks. Dog ticks do not typically carry this bacterium.
- Tick Species: Different species of ticks have different host preferences and habitats, affecting which pathogens they may carry and transmit.
Precautions Against Tick Bites:
- Avoid Tick Habitats: Stay away from grassy, bushy, and wooded areas where ticks are common.
- Use Repellents: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or permethrin to skin and clothing.
- Protective Clothing: Wear long sleeves, long pants, and tuck pants into socks when in tick-prone areas.
- Tick Checks: Perform thorough tick checks on yourself, children, and pets after spending time outdoors.
- Prompt Tick Removal: Remove ticks promptly and properly using fine-tipped tweezers to minimize the risk of disease transmission.
What to Do If Bitten by a Tick
If you are bitten by a tick, it’s important to identify the type of tick if possible. This can help assess the risk of disease transmission. Monitor the bite area and your overall health. If you develop a rash, fever, chills, or other symptoms, seek medical advice promptly, especially if you suspect it could be Lyme disease.
Conclusion
While dog ticks are not vectors for Lyme disease, it is still essential to protect yourself from tick bites due to the variety of illnesses they can transmit. By taking preventive measures and staying informed, you can enjoy your outdoor activities with greater peace of mind. Always be vigilant and proactive in tick prevention to safeguard your health and well-being. Call Serenity Health Care Center at 262-522-8640 to schedule an appointment with one of our Lyme Illness practitioners.
Dr. Greg Brown, MD, is a distinguished Board-Certified Internist with over 30 years of experience in Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine. Since 2011, Dr. Brown has served as our Medical Director, establishing himself as one of the leading functional doctors in the Midwest. His credentials include being a recognized Lyme Disease Provider and an expert in Autism care in Waukesha. Dr. Brown’s dedication to patient care and his comprehensive, integrative approach to medicine have earned him a stellar reputation in the medical community.