Coping with LYME DISEASE

This bacterial infection is spread to humans by infected ticks

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Ticks are tiny, spider-like creatures found throughout the UK and elsewhere in Europe and North America, often in areas with overgrown plants where they have contact with animals. They're common in woodland and moorland areas, but also in gardens or parks. They feed on the blood of birds and mammals, including humans. After biting an animal carrying the Borrelia bacteria, the tick itself may become infected.

Ticks don't fly but climb on to your clothes or skin if you brush against something they're on, before biting into your skin to feed on your blood, transferring the bacteria into you. Infection is more likely the longer the tick is attached to your skin, so removing them quickly is important. However, ticks are small and their bites aren't painful, so you may not realise it's there.

Not all ticks carry the Borrelia bacteria so being bitten doesn't mean you'll definitely be infected, but consider Lyme disease if you've been outdoors and feel unwell.