An Increase in Lyme Disease Cases: What Does it Mean for Children?

Pediatricians See Summer Spike in Lyme Disease

August 10, 2023

Increase in Lyme Disease Cases Among Children

As summer arrives and families spend more time outdoors, pediatricians are seeing a spike in Lyme disease cases among children. Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Pennsylvania reported the highest number of Lyme disease cases in 2020, with 91% of all cases occurring in just 15 states.

While Lyme disease can affect people of all ages, children are particularly vulnerable as they spend more time outdoors during summer break. Dr. Howard Topol, a pediatrician with Allegheny Health Network, explains that the incidence of Lyme disease has increased over the past few decades, with cases peaking between April and October. Notably, the month of June and July account for about 50% of the cases.

Early Identification and Symptoms

Lyme disease usually presents with a rash that starts small and expands to around 2 to 3 inches in diameter at the site of the tick bite. However, children may not always notice the tick bite itself. Dr. Topol advises parents to be vigilant for symptoms that usually appear three to 30 days after a tick bite, such as an expanding rash.

Although the bullseye-shaped rash is the most common symptom, there are other clues to the presence of Lyme disease. Dr. Topol explains that patients may not always go through the initial rash stage, and if left untreated, the disease can progress to two more phases, which may involve Bell’s Palsy, heart involvement, eye involvement, or even viral meningitis. Late findings, which often occur in the wintertime, manifest as arthritis with one swollen joint.

Prevention and Prompt Treatment

Preventing Lyme disease is crucial, and the best protection is to use bug repellent containing DEET whenever venturing into wooded areas. Dr. Topol recommends bug spray with DEET concentrations of up to 50%, as higher concentrations do not provide any additional benefit. Upon returning home, it is important to conduct a thorough tick check and take a shower, as washing off the tick before it becomes attached or engorged may help prevent infection.

If a tick is found, Dr. Topol advises using tweezers to carefully remove it, and then promptly contacting a pediatrician. While there are blood tests available for Lyme disease, it takes several weeks for antibodies to build up enough to be detected through testing. Nevertheless, if a visible rash appears in the early stages, treatment can begin without waiting for test results.

“The good news is that if you get proper treatment, it will take care of the infection and not progress to the next stage,” says Dr. Topol. Antibiotics, such as amoxicillin or doxycycline, are commonly used to treat Lyme disease at all stages, with the length of treatment varying based on the stage of onset.

Philosophical Discussion: Balancing Outdoor Activity and Risk

The spike in Lyme disease cases among children raises important questions about balancing outdoor activity and the potential risks of tick-borne diseases. While it is crucial to take precautions, such as using bug repellent and conducting tick checks, it is also important to recognize the benefits of outdoor play, physical activity, and nature exploration for children’s overall well-being.

Engaging in physical activity and spending time in nature has been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved mental health, increased cognitive functioning, and enhanced social skills. Limiting children’s outdoor activities solely out of fear of tick-borne diseases could deprive them of these important developmental opportunities. Instead, parents and caregivers should educate themselves about tick prevention strategies and implement them effectively while allowing children to safely enjoy the outdoors.

Editorial: The Need for Public Health Initiatives

With Lyme disease cases on the rise, there is a clear need for public health initiatives that increase awareness, prevention, and timely treatment. The high percentage of cases reported in just 15 states indicates the unequal distribution of Lyme disease burden across the country, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions in the most affected regions.

In addition to individual efforts to protect against ticks, such as using bug repellent and conducting tick checks, community-wide strategies should be implemented. These can include measures such as tick-reduction programs, public education campaigns, and improved access to testing and treatment. Collaborations between public health agencies, healthcare providers, and school systems can play a vital role in disseminating information, raising awareness, and providing resources to prevent and manage tick-borne diseases.

Advice: Empowering Parents and Caregivers

Parents and caregivers should be empowered with knowledge and resources to protect their children from tick-borne diseases. They can start by familiarizing themselves with the signs and symptoms of Lyme disease, as well as prevention strategies. Regular tick checks and prompt removal are important practices, as early detection and treatment can prevent the disease from progressing to more severe stages.

Moreover, parents should encourage open communication with their pediatricians and seek medical attention if they suspect their child has been exposed to ticks or is showing symptoms of Lyme disease. By working together, healthcare providers and parents can ensure that children receive timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, reducing the potential long-term consequences of Lyme disease.

While the threat of Lyme disease should not discourage families from enjoying outdoor activities, it is crucial to strike a balance between outdoor exploration and mitigating the risks associated with tick bites. With proper education, preventive measures, and access to healthcare resources, children can continue to reap the benefits of outdoor play while staying safe from tick-borne illnesses.