Lyme Disease

In Massachusetts, Lyme disease is common, especially from late spring through early fall. In children, symptoms can range from mild to more serious if the infection isn't treated promptly.

Here are the main signs to watch for after a tick bite or time spent outdoors:

A rash: The classic rash is called erythema migrans. It usually:

• Appears 3–30 days after a tick bite.
• Gradually expands over several days.
• May look like a bull's-eye, but often is just a solid red or pink expanding patch.
• Usually isn't very itchy or painful.
• Can occur in places that are hard to see, such as the scalp, behind the knees, groin, or back.

Flu-like symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Joint aches
• Swollen lymph nodes

When to contact your child's healthcare provider

It's a good idea to call your doctor  if:

• Your child develops an expanding rash after a tick bite or outdoor exposure.
• They have fever or flu-like symptoms within a month of a tick bite.
• They develop a swollen joint or facial weakness.
• You removed a tick that may have been attached for 36 hours or longer, especially if it was an blacklegged tick (deer tick). In some cases, preventive antibiotics may be appropriate if started within 72 hours of tick removal. Treatment decisions depend on factors such as tick species, attachment time, and local Lyme prevalence. Massachusetts is considered a high-incidence area. Early treatment is very effective.

Prevention

After spending time in wooded, brushy, or grassy areas:

• Do a full-body tick check, including the scalp, behind the ears, under the arms, around the waist, and behind the knees.
• Shower within two hours of coming indoors.
• Remove attached ticks promptly with fine-tipped tweezers.
• Use EPA-registered insect repellents and wear long sleeves and pants when practical.