Surge in Lyme disease in Pennsylvania sparks health concerns - here's tips on how to treat it

A surge in Lyme disease in Pennsylvania has sparked health concerns from officials who are urging everyone to be alert this summer.

More than 420 cases of the disease have been reported so far this year, according to Department of Health Data, Chester County. The number of cases are expected to keep rising.

Dr. Mike Cirigliano, at the Perlman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania , recently treated around 20 patients for potential Lyme disease . He told Fox29: "I found a deer tick on my neck the other night.

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"I'm seeing tons of cases . We’re having a blue light special on tick borne illnesses this year. I’ve seen a bunch of people with the rash . Sometimes it's in the groin area or behind the knees. You have to really scour your body."

Chester County in particular is experiencing the highest number of Lyme disease cases at 422 so far in 2024, according to Pennsylvania's Tick-borne Diseases Dashboard. Health officials have released tips to stay safe.

Tips

• Those who spend a lot of time outdoors should check their clothing and body for tricks
• Take precautions like a substance called permethrin which you can buy at sporting goods stores

• Go to your doctor to be described a course of antibiotics. The treatment usually lasts 10 to 14 days. Treatment may be longer depending on your symptoms but it's important o take all pills as directed even if you improve

• One of the tell-tale signs of tick-borne disease is bulls' eye rash so be hyper-aware of that

• Headaches, nausea and joint or body aches are also symptoms to keep an eye out for

• Seek medical attention if you observe any of these symptoms and have recently had a tick bite, live in an area known for Lyme disease, or have recently travelled to an area where Lyme disease occurs

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"If there is a concern you’ve been exposed to a tick, you need to get treated and get treated quickly," Dr. Mike added. Pennsylvania saw over 11,000 cases of Lyme disease and there is set to be similar numbers in 2024.

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