May 11, 2010
COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
Department for the Aging
1610 Forest Avenue, Suite 100, Richmond, Virginia 23229
Toll-Free: 1-800-552-3402 (Voice/TTY) · Phone: 804-662-9333 · Fax: 804-662-9354
E-mail: aging@vda.virginia.gov · Web Site: www.vda.virginia.gov
MEMORANDUM
TO: Executive Directors
Area Agencies on Aging
FROM: Kathy Miller, Director of Programs
DATE: May 11, 2010
SUBJECT: Lyme Disease
While several types of tick-borne disease (including Rocky Mountain spotted fever) are
found in Virginia, Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne infection reported in
the state.
Since 2000, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has witnessed a steady increase in the
number of newly identified Lyme disease cases. In 2007, Lyme disease increased
dramatically and has remained high since that time. This increase has followed a pattern of
geographic spread of Lyme activity southward and westward from northern regions of the
state. Most cases occur during the late spring and early summer with illness onset most
likely to occur in June, July and August.
It is important to remember that ticks become more active with warmer weather, increasing
the risk of tick-borne disease. Particularly throughout the spring and summer, you are
encouraged to maintain a heightened awareness. Follow practices that will decrease the
risk of acquiring Lyme disease, such as proper clothing when outdoors, use of repellants,
and prompt removal of ticks.
Common symptoms of Lyme disease include the following:
* Fever, headaches
*Malaise, fatigue
* Erythema migrans skin lesion ("bull's-eye rash")
* Myalgia, migratory arthralgias
* Stiff neck
http://www.vda.virginia.gov/2010email_pdfdocs/VDA%20Tuesday%20E-Mailing%20-%202010_05_11.pdf