Whether Mosquitoes Transmit Lyme Disease
WouterWhether mosquitoes transmit Lyme disease is a hotly debated topic. Despite recent scientific evidence, mainstream disease centers continue to deny that they do.
Borrelia burgdorferi is the bacterium that causes Lyme disease. It is transmitted through a series of processes inside the tick. The bacteria can enter the human bloodstream if they are attached for 36 to 48 hours. They can then spread to other parts of the body.
There are several species of ticks that can carry the bacterium. The lone star and the American dog ticks are known to carry the infection. The deer tick has also been found to carry the bacterium.
While there is no way to determine if an infected mosquito will transmit the disease, studies have shown that the bite of an infected tick can cause a bull’s-eye rash. The rash is typically not itchy, and can grow up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) in width. It can also be warm to the touch.
As the bull’s-eye rash develops, a person can begin to experience flulike symptoms. This includes fatigue, numbness and joint pain. A person who is infected may also experience headaches, heart palpitations, short-term memory problems, and neck stiffness.
The best way to avoid contracting Lyme disease is to check for ticks on a regular basis. If you do find one, remove it immediately. If the tick is not removed, it can remain on your skin for weeks.
If you do develop Lyme disease, it can be treated. Taking antibiotics in the early stages of the disease can help to prevent the condition from becoming chronic.
