Local MSP Maree Todd, SNP, has been supporting Lyme Disease UK this week in the Scottish Parliament as part of Lyme Disease month.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can be spread to humans by infected ticks. It’s usually easier to treat if it’s diagnosed early.Many people with early symptoms of Lyme disease develop a circular red skin rash around a tick bite. The rash can appear up to 3 months after being bitten by a tick and usually lasts for several weeks. Most rashes appear within the first 4 weeks.

Maree Todd said:

 “Not everyone is aware of the dangers of tick-bites, especially tourists. This can lead to very serious consequences. If left untreated, Lyme Disease can go on to develop into a chronic, debilitating and disabling condition.

“So what can we do? For starters, we should all avoid tick bites where possible.There are various ways this can be done such as wearing long sleeved and light coloured clothing, avoiding long grass, wearing insect repellent, and prompt tick removal.

 “We can all agree that much more needs to be done to tackle Lyme disease. Accurate testing and data collection are vital, but raising awareness is the important first step.”

Morven-May MacCallum, author of ‘Finding Joy’ and Lyme disease campaigner from the Black Isle helped organise the event in the Scottish Parliament.