Lyme disease is a tick-borne disease that is increasing here in the area around Siebengebirge and Voreifel. The diagnosis is difficult because laboratory diagnosis may provide false results.

Therefore, the key is the clinical symptom. Within a few days up to 4 weeks, it often happens that a reddening of the skin around the tick bite spreads circularly around the sting. This stage, however, does not always occur. Without medical treatment the disease can become chronic, and cause damage primarily to the joints, the heart and the nervous system.

Damage to the nervous system can especially be very diverse and occur only after months. There is no vaccine against Lyme disease, and unfortunately orthodox medical methods take effect only in the acute stage. Prevention is therefore of the utmost importance. Here are some tips: Wash and shower before you go into the forest or garden because ticks respond to butyric acid in sweat. Wear high cut shoes and closed clothing.

Check yourself for ticks afterwards and change clothes. If you should find a tick, pull it out with a tick remover or a suitable forceps without rotating, or have it done by a physician. Never put oil or another substance on the tick.