As the spring season approaches, Nassau County Legislator Dave Mejias would like to remind all residents that the most serious of tick-borne illnesses, known as Lyme Disease, is extremely prevalent in Nassau County.

"While the beautiful weather allows us to spend more time outdoors, it also increases our exposure to Lyme disease," said Mejias.

This tick-borne disease is extremely difficult to diagnose as it may start out as a small oval rash that continues to expand until detected, or could include symptoms such as fatigue, chills and fever, headache, muscle and joint pains and swollen lymph nodes. "Early diagnosis is crucial to enable the prompt treatment to prevent long-term complications that could result in serious arthritic, heart and nervous system problems," added Mejias.

Lyme disease is now the most prevalent vector-borne infectious disease in the United States, with more than 23,000 cases reported in 2002. The risk of contracting other tick-borne diseases, such as Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Babesiosis or Ehrlichiosis is relatively small in Nassau. However, since many residents spend their summers traveling outside of Nassau County their exposure to other serious tick related diseases increases.

According to Mejias, "Residents can reduce the risk of contracting Lyme disease by staying out of heavy wooded areas, grasslands and areas adjacent to salt marshes and dense shrubbery." Residents can also decrease their chances by wearing light clothing with long sleeves and pants tucked into boots, utilizing appropriate repellents and continuously checking yourself and your pets for ticks," he added.

For additional information on identifying ticks and preventing tick-borne diseases, or to obtain a bulletin containing information to help residents, visit the Nassau County Health Department website at www.co.nassau.ny.us/health, or contact the Nassau County Department of Health at 571-2006.