What are the risk factors?
Where you live or vacation can increase your chances of getting Lyme disease and so can the type of outdoor activities you enjoy. The most common risk factors include:
  • Spending time in grassy or wooded areas in Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin particularly during summer months: Deer ticks are most prevalent in these states, but are also found in other areas of the U.S., as well as in Europe, Asia, and Australia.
  • Leaving skin exposed while in wooded or grassy areas: Ticks can easily attach themselves to uncovered flesh.
  • Not removing ticks promptly or properly: If you're bitten and the infected tick stays attached to your skin for 36 to 48 hours or longer, bacteria from the tick can infect your bloodstream.

Show All Answers

1. What Is Lyme Disease?
2. What are the signs and symptoms of Lyme disease?
3. What are the causes of Lyme disease?
4. What are the risk factors?
5. When should I seek medical advice?
6. What are the screening and diagnosis procedures for Lyme disease?
7. What are the complications?
8. What are the treatment options?
9. How can I prevent Lyme disease?
10. Where can get more information about Lyme disease?