Côte-d'Or. 33,000 cases per year in France: how to protect yourself against Lyme disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted primarily by ticks that remain attached to the skin for more than 24 hours. The highest-risk periods are spring and summer. Approximately 1 to 5% of tick bites result in this disease. Each year, nearly 33,000 cases are reported in France.

In the days following the bite, a round, enlarging reddening appears in 70 to 80% of cases. It is sometimes accompanied by fever and fatigue, similar to the flu. If left untreated, the disease can cause complications in 5 to 15% of cases , such as joint pain, paralysis of the face and/or body, and, more rarely, heart problems.

Fortunately, the disease is easily treated with antibiotics, especially if diagnosed early. More than 95% of people recover without after-effects after two to four weeks of treatment.

To prevent tick bites and therefore disease, there are several recommendations to be aware of. When walking in nature , take a tick remover (or failing that, tweezers) with you to intervene in the event of a bite. Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs, and tightens your wrists and ankles. Choose light-colored clothing to spot the presence of ticks. Wear a hat that covers your head and neck (especially to protect children). Wear closed shoes and tuck your trouser legs into your socks (or use gaiters) to prevent ticks from entering through openings. You may want to use tick repellent on your skin and clothing. In nature: stay on cleared paths and trails. Avoid brush, tall grass, and ferns. Do not sit on the ground.

In the garden : Create open, sunny areas (ticks need shade and moisture to proliferate), cut the grass short, and avoid building up piles of wood. When you get home , it is advisable to inspect your body. If you get bitten, remove the tick quickly, which greatly reduces the risk of infection. Disinfect the area after removal. Monitor the redness for a month. Consult a doctor if you have any doubts or if you experience symptoms.