It's unclear why the increase in Lyme disease is occurring, though state Health Department officials said it may be more health care providers are more knowledgeable and reporting it more. It is also linked to the increased deer population. We have to be aware that ticks are undoubtedly in the Capital Region and you should check yourself as carefully as possible. If the tick has not been attached for 36 hours or more, the risk of getting Lyme disease is minimal, she said. Therapy includes the use of antibiotics.
Prognosis is improved with prompt diagnosis.
It is possible to get re-infected after being treated for Lyme disease, so proper precautions should continue to be taken when outdoors. There is a vaccine available to prevent Lyme disease. The federal Food and Drug Administration gave its Approval of LYMErix and the vaccine hit the market in mid-January. Vaccination is currently available only to those age 15 or older. The Health Department said the vaccination is not recommended for everyone, though anyone at high risk Should consider getting vaccinated.