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Feeding of Ticks on Animals for Transmission and Xenodiagnosis in Lyme Disease Research
Published on: August 31, 2013
Risk factors for lyme disease in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
G Smith1, E P Wileyto, R B Hopkins
1Section of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, USA. garys@vet.upenn.edu
Public Health Reports (Washington, D.C. : 1974)
|March 13, 2002
Summary
Lyme disease risk is higher in rural areas and for those living near woods or gardening extensively. Checking for ticks and using repellents reduce risk, highlighting the importance of home environment awareness.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
- Vector-borne Diseases
Background:
- Lyme disease is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding local risk factors is crucial for prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify environmental and behavioral factors associated with Lyme disease risk in Chester County, Pennsylvania.
Main Methods:
- Unmatched case-control study.
- 294 incident Lyme disease cases and 449 controls interviewed via telephone.
- Data collected on demographics, living environment, and activities.
Main Results:
- Increased risk observed in rural settings, for ages 10-19 and 50+, and for homes near woodlands or with specific land features.
- Gardening >4 hours/week was a risk factor; other outdoor activities were not significant.
- Tick checks during activity and repellent use outside the yard reduced risk.
Conclusions:
- The immediate home environment poses a significant risk for Lyme disease acquisition.
- Public awareness campaigns should emphasize risks associated with home surroundings and preventative measures.
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