If your child has been outdoors a lot in the spring, summer, or fall and develops fatigue, fever, chills and weakness, he or she may have Lyme disease. It is far more likely, however, that your doctor will determine that he has some other illness with similar symptoms. The child who actually does have Lyme disease frequently has a distinctive, circular bull's eye shaped rash that is often red, but may range from pink to purple and be lighter-colored in the center. The rash surrounds the tick bite, which is most likely to occur in the groin, armpit, or thigh, may be warm to the touch, and rarely is painful. It starts out a bit larger than a dime, then expands rapidly to about six inches or larger.
Some children have headaches, stiff necks, and muscle or joint pains.
Report any of these symptoms to your pediatrician. If your child is diagnosed with Lyme disease, she will be treated with antibiotics, which usually relieve or eliminate symptoms. Symptoms can return, although this is unusual, and further treatment may be required. Carefully follow instructions for giving your child antibiotics, and be sure to return for follow-up care and any necessary further testing. Tell your doctor promptly if your child s symptoms return or new symptoms appear.