Chain of Infection Lymes Disease Lyme borreliosis Source

Chain of Infection – Lymes Disease Lyme borreliosis Source of Infection Method of spread There is currently no vaccine available to prevent Lyme disease. The best way to prevent the condition is to be aware of the risks when you visit areas where ticks are found and to take sensible precautions Lyme disease, is a bacterial infection spread to humans by infected ticks. Ticks are tiny spider-like creatures found in woodland heath areas. They feed on the blood of birds and mammals, including humans. Ticks that carry the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease are found throughout the UK and in other parts of Europe and North America. It's estimated there are 2, 000 to 3, 000 new cases of Lyme disease in England Wales each year. About 15% of cases occur while people are abroad. Lyme disease can often be treated effectively if it's detected early on. But if it's not treated or treatment is delayed, there's a risk you could develop severe and long-lasting symptoms. Person at risk Portal of entry Anyone using woodland heath areas, or areas of long grass. Through unprotected skin: If a tick bites an animal carrying the bacteria that cause Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi), the tick can also become infected. The tick can then transfer the bacteria to a human by biting them. Breaking the Chain You can reduce the risk of infection by: keeping to footpaths and avoiding long grass when out walking wearing appropriate clothing in tick-infested areas (a long-sleeved shirt and trousers tucked into your socks) Bug of the month from the Infection Prevention Team