Lyme Disease is on the Increase in Washington County, MD

A recent article in the Frederick News Post warns its readers that Lyme Disease is reported to be increasing in Washington County, MD.  This was no surprise to me because I have spoken with so many people in Maryland who have Lyme Disease or know someone with Lyme Disease.  One of my customers told me he works in an Emergency Room in Hagerstown and they see Lyme Disease every day.  Worse, the Centers for Disease Control readily acknowledges that the vast majority of patients with Lyme Disease go undiagnosed.  Therefore, the actual number of cases is far higher than the reported cases. 

Since deer ticks get blood meals on field mice, squirrels, rabbits, and larger animals like deer, you should expect they will be found any place those animals might be.   

The article says that mid-summer is a peak time for tick activity.  The only way to prevent Lyme Disease is to limit exposure to ticks.  In my opinion, the best way to limit that exposure is to exterminate the ticks.  Other steps should also be taken:  1) wear long pants that are tucked into your boots or socks, 2) where white clothing so you can see the ticks coming on you, 3) try to avoid places with high grass or wooded areas, 4) check children for ticks frequently. 

Lyme Disease can be extremely serious, causing severe joint distress, fatigue, and other life changing conditions, especially if it is not diagnosed.