Illnesses You Can Contract From Ticks (Other Than Lyme Disease)
Being able to enjoy a beautiful day outside is the best part about the spring and summer months. One of the few downsides of being able to go hiking or to the park is the possibility of being bit by a tick. We all know that ticks can give you Lyme disease, but did you know they can also infect you with other tick-borne infections?
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
This illness is caused primarily by the American Dog tick; located east of the Rocky mountains. Once the illness is contracted, symptoms including a spotty rash will begin to appear roughly five to ten days later. Since Lyme disease is rarely ever fatal, Rocky Mountain spotted fever is considered to be the most dangerous of all tick-borne illnesses. When this illness is left untreated, roughly 10 percent of all cases result in death.
Human Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (HME)
There is another illness that is oftentimes misdiagnosed as Lyme disease due to the similarities in their symptoms. HME will result in a similar rash with mild Lyme symptoms. However, since HME is an acute infection, there is no long-term negative results to worry about once the illness has been treated. The main perpetrator in spreading this illness is the Lone Star tick.
Allergic Reactions
When a person is bit by a tick, they may be prone to developing a rash immediately. When a rash appears instantly (rather than taking a few days), this is usually due to an allergic reaction from the tick itself instead of an illness or Lyme disease. Whether you believe the rash is from an allergic reaction or a tick-borne illness, head to the doctor’s office anyways to be sure.
Ticks are widely known for spreading the famous Lyme disease, however, there are other illnesses you can contract from ticks. When you’re afraid to be in your own yard because of ticks, contact Knockout Pest Control. To learn more about tick management or to schedule an inspection, give us a call at (800) 244-7378.
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