Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, is a concern for many people, especially those who enjoy spending time outdoors. Understanding its prevalence in specific regions, such as Texas, helps clarify the risk. This article explores the factors influencing its spread, from tick populations to geographic conditions.
Lyme Disease Prevalence in Texas
Lyme disease is not considered common or endemic throughout most of Texas, especially when compared to the high-incidence regions of the Northeastern and Upper Midwestern United States. From 2000 to 2020, Texas reported an average of 85 human cases per year, with a range between 11 and 276 cases annually. The majority of these reported cases are acquired outside the state, primarily from areas where the disease is more prevalent.
While official statistics may indicate lower numbers, there is a possibility of under-reporting. Texans are at risk of Lyme disease from both native sources and cases acquired during travel to other endemic areas. The state also sees other tick-borne illnesses that might present with similar symptoms, sometimes referred to as “Lyme-like illnesses,” which can be more common than Lyme disease itself within Texas.
Tick Species and Transmission in Texas
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted by infected blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis), also known as deer ticks. While Ixodes scapularis ticks are present in parts of East Texas, their distribution and the rate at which they carry the bacterium are lower than in the Northeast. Their spread in Texas is limited by factors like precipitation and climate in drier regions.
Other tick species are more common across Texas but do not transmit Lyme disease. The Lone Star tick (Amblyomma americanum), widespread in Texas, transmits illnesses like ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI). STARI can cause a rash similar to Lyme disease’s “bull’s-eye” rash but is not caused by the Lyme bacterium. The American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) is another common species that transmits Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia, but not Lyme disease.
Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Care
Lyme disease symptoms vary by infection stage. Early signs typically appear within 3 to 30 days after a tick bite. The most recognized early symptom is a red, expanding rash known as erythema migrans, often described as a “bull’s-eye” appearance. This rash may feel warm but is usually not itchy or painful.
Other early symptoms include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes. If untreated, the infection can spread, leading to severe issues affecting the joints, heart, or nervous system weeks to months later. Later-stage symptoms might include severe headaches, neck stiffness, additional rashes, facial paralysis, arthritis with joint pain and swelling, heart palpitations, dizziness, or nerve pain. If a tick bite is suspected or these symptoms appear, prompt medical evaluation is important.
Prevention for Texans
Texans can take several steps to reduce their risk of tick bites and tick-borne illnesses. When spending time outdoors, especially in wooded, brushy, or grassy areas, wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into socks. Light-colored clothing can make it easier to spot ticks.
Using EPA-registered insect repellents containing active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or permethrin on clothing and gear can also provide protection. After outdoor activities, performing thorough tick checks on oneself, children, and pets is crucial. Ticks often attach to hidden areas like behind the ears, on the scalp, around the waistline, and behind the knees. Prompt removal of any attached ticks with fine-tipped tweezers can prevent disease transmission, as a tick typically needs to be attached for at least 24 hours to transmit the Lyme disease bacterium.