Like any New York resident, you’re probably aware of the risk you possess for contracting Lyme disease. While ticks are rampant in the Northeastern part of the United States, this isn’t the only contributing factor. In this blog, we’ll cover the people and places that are most at risk for Lyme disease. However, since the symptoms of this disease are so vast and broad, it’s not uncommon to be misdiagnosed, leading to an array of illness, symptoms, and medical bills. It’s equally important to understand your risk for contracting Lyme disease and receiving an accurate diagnosis, so read on for more information.
Where is Lyme Disease Most Common?
According to Winchester Hospital, Lyme disease is found most often in 3 geographic locations in the United States:
- Northeast and Mid-Atlantic—Maine to New York and Maryland
- North Central—Minnesota and Wisconsin
- Pacific Northwest—northwestern California and Oregon
The activity and threat level of ticks is dependent on the average temperatures in these locations throughout the year. For example, Northeastern states such as New York reach its peak season in July. However, while not listed as a primary location for ticks, southern states such as Texas run the risk of coming into contact with one year-round as temperatures remain warm. People who live in these parts of the country need to take extra precautions to prevent tick bites.
What Activities are Most Risky for Tick Bites?
There are various activities that pose a threat to people for tick bites, and therefore, the potential for lyme disease. People who partake in these, especially during the summer, are at higher risk:
- Hiking: Trekking through thick brush and tall grasses puts you in a tick’s natural habitat. According to the Wilderness Medical Society, approximately 4-6% of Appalachian Trail hikers contract Lyme disease each year.The more you hike, the more likely you are to experience a tick bite.
- Gardening: Summer is prime time for gardening, but that’s also when ticks are most active in New York. Wear protective gear such as gloves and long sleeves to prevent a potential bite.
- Hunting: Similar to hiking, hunting puts you in a tick’s environment. Not only can they attach themselves to you, but they can also burrow into your pet, increasing your chances of a tick bite.
- Working outside: Those who are exposed to vegetation and wooded areas, such as forestry workers, are at a higher risk for getting bitten by a tick. However, this also applies to people who live in rural, wooded areas. If you live in the outskirts of the city, your backyard could be a tick breeding ground.
Tick bites can be commonly mistaken for other types of bug bites, depression, anxiety, and more. Understanding your level of risk can help you protect yourself and get a proper diagnosis should symptoms occur.
Contact Your NY Malpractice Attorney
If you or someone you know have received a wrongful diagnosis and your Lyme disease was left unchecked and untreated, an NYC Medical Malpractice lawyer can help. We understand the frustration of a misdiagnosis and the dire consequences of this disease, and we have helped thousands of injury victims receive the help and monetary reward for pain and suffering which they deserve. Contact the law offices of Ronemus & Vilensky today by calling 212-779-7070, or filling out our free, no-obligation quote form today.
