The risk of contracting Lyme disease from tick bites is on the rise during warmer months due to factors like climate change. Nancy Shadick, a rheumatologist, mentions the increase in Lyme disease cases spreading beyond the Northeast and upper Midwest. She also highlights key risk factors like wooded areas, golf courses, and the presence of deer and mice. Children aged 5 to 9 are at the highest risk, and pets can bring ticks into the house. Preventative measures like tick-proofing clothing, tick checks, and proper tick removal are crucial. Vaccinations for dogs and potential Lyme disease vaccines for humans are being researched. The Harvard Health Lyme Wellness website and the CDC offer valuable information for learning more about Lyme disease.
https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2023/06/how-to-prevent-lyme-disease-this-summer/