/** * https://gist.github.com/samthor/64b114e4a4f539915a95b91ffd340acc */ (function() { var check = document.createElement('script'); if (!('noModule' in check) && 'onbeforeload' in check) { var = false; document.addEventListener('beforeload', function(e) { if (e.target === check) { = true; } else if (!e.target.hasAttribute('nomodule') || !) { return; } e.preventDefault(); }, true); check.type = 'module'; check.src = '.'; document.head.appendChild(check); check.remove(); } }());
BBC Morning Live Logo
Dr Punam

"Warning issued to anyone walking through grass in May or June"

It's a headline that might stop you in your tracks, especially if you enjoy the great outdoors. But how worried should we really be? With May marking Lyme Disease Awareness Month, Dr Punam ed us in the studio on Friday 23rd May to break down what's behind the headlines, and tell us what we need to know to stay safe.

What Is Lyme Disease and Why Are We Hearing More About It?

Ticks, those tiny, spider-like creatures often found in grassy or wooded areas, can carry a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease. Not all ticks are infected, but those that are can transmit the disease through a bite.

More cases are currently being recorded in Scotland, however the disease is still prevalent across the whole of the UK. Climate change, longer tick seasons and more of us enjoying time outdoors are all playing a part.

That said, your individual risk remains low. Around 6% of ticks in the UK carry Lyme-causing bacteria. And even if bitten by an infected tick, removing it quickly significantly reduces your chances of getting sick.

How to Avoid Being Bitten by a Tick

If you're heading out for a walk, especially in woods or areas with tall grass, take these simple precautions:

✅ Stick to Clear Paths

Stay in the centre of trails and avoid brushing up against vegetation.

✅ Dress Appropriately

Wear long sleeves and tros. Tuck tros into your socks to prevent ticks from reaching your skin. Lighter-coloured clothing also helps spot ticks more easily.

✅ Use Insect Repellent

Look for sprays containing DEET and apply it to exposed skin and clothing. For your face, spray into your hands first before carefully applying, avoiding eyes and mouth. It offers protection for up to 8 hours, though sweating or wiping may reduce effectiveness, so reapply as needed.

✅ Do a Full-Body Tick Check

After outdoor activities, check your entire body, especially hidden areas like the scalp, behind the knees, groin, and armpits.

What If You've Been Bitten by a Tick?

DO:

  • Remove the tick quickly and correctly. Use fine-tipped tweezers (not blunt ones) or a tick removal tool from a pharmacy or camping shop.

  • Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, then pull slowly and steadily upwards.

  • Dispose of the tick by squashing it in a tissue and flushing it away or putting it in a bin.

DON'T:

  • Squeeze the tick with your fingers.

  • Use petroleum jelly, alcohol or try to burn it off. These can make the tick dig in deeper.

You can also contribute to the UK Health and Security Agency's Tick Monitoring Scheme by sending in the tick for analysis.

Find out more about that scheme on the UKHSA website here

Spotting the Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Lyme disease symptoms can appear between 3 and 30 days after a bite.

Bullseye shaped rash

Also known as erythema migrans, this is a common symptom that occurs in over 70% of people with Lyme disease

Lyme disease rash

Other symptoms:

  • Fever and chills

  • Fatigue

  • Headaches

  • Muscle or t pain

  • Swollen lymph nodes

If you experience any of these after a tick bite, or even after spending time in a high-risk area, see your GP. Doctors can identify Lyme disease and start treatment quickly.

Is Lyme Disease Treatable?

Lyme disease is usually treated with a 2-4 week course of antibiotics, and most people recover fully, especially when treated early.

However, if left untreated, the infection can spread to the ts, heart, and nervous system, leading to more serious complications, so don't delay seeking medical advice if you notice symptoms.

More Information

You can get more information on Lyme Disease from some of the following organisations: