Lyme disease is an infection caused by a bacterium that is transmitted by infected ticks. A bite from an infected tick usually produces a small red dot that gradually expands to form a circular rash. The rash resembles the bulls-eye of a target and may be as much as 6in (15cm) across. There may also be tiredness, fever, chills, headaches, and joint pain.
If untreated, these symptoms may persist for several weeks. Rarely, serious complications affecting the heart, nervous system, and joints may develop up to 2 years later in untreated cases.
Treatment of Lyme disease is with antibiotics, and pain relievers to relieve symptoms.
Most people make a complete recovery if treated soon after infection.
If complications have developed, a prolonged course of antibiotics together with other treatment for the specific complication may be needed.
In a few cases, long-term symptoms similar to chronic fatigue syndrome may develop