Dear Friends,
I am writing this letter to make you aware of the recent rise in Lyme disease cases in the Fairfax County area. Reports of this disease have more than doubled in our region from 2006 to 2007, and continue to grow. In fact, a friend of mine, as well as his wife and both children have recently been diagnosed with Lyme disease.
Ticks are the main reason for the recent spread, and they are sometimes very hard to notice. They are most commonly spread through animals such as deer or rodents, or in wooded areas. Ticks have been know to wait in the grass for an animal or human to walk by, and then will latch on.
The most common symptoms of Lyme disease include heart and joint problems. Bell’s palsy, which is a paralysis of cranial nerves, and meningitis, can also occur if Lyme disease is not treated early enough. Even with early treatment it can still take months to fully cure.
Additional resources for finding out more information can be found HERE.
I hope you will make sure to check for ticks whenever being outside in grass or wooded areas. If there is ever anything I can do for you in the future, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Regards,
Tim
I live in Springfield. Both my daughters and myself have been diagnosed with Lyme. One daughter and I have also been dignosed with Babesiosis, another tick born disease. My dog also recently was diagnosed with Lyme. In my house, that’s 75% of the people and 50% of the dogs! Everyone should be worried- this disease has cost us so much, both financially and in terms of our health. More needs to be done to recognise and treat Lyme disease. Also, insurance companies that are in denial about the existance of Lyme need to step up and face the fact that it is becoming extremely prevelant in this area!