May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month




Author:  Paula Jackson Jones
Published:  05/04/2017
By proclamation of the Governor, May is recognized statewide as Lyme Disease Awareness Month, because of the increased risk when immature ticks emerge in the springtime.  While many people know something about Lyme, there are many common misconceptions.  Did you know that ticks can carry more than one infectious bacterium at a time?  Did you know that there are over 300 strains of tick-borne bacteria in the US and the most test administered in the primary care doctor's offices is only testing for 1 strain? It is our goal to raise awareness about the fastest growing vector-borne infectious disease, not only throughout the United States but right here in Maine.

Maine is a state with lots of outdoor activities.  Through preventative education, we can continue to safely enjoy those outdoor activities without fear of contracting Lyme.  Should we come into contact with a tick, we are armed with awareness for treatment options to combat the potential for tick-born infection to disseminate.  Ticks are everywhere and are waiting for a host to come along to feed upon. They transport on our pets, on our outerwear, even through contact with tree and shrub branches. They crawl into places where we can not see them until its too late.    With the right amount of prevention, it makes it difficult for ticks to survive and therefore, unable to attach and transmit infections.  There are lots of options available to suit your lifestyle.  Some opt for harsh chemicals while others prefer a more natural approach.  Harsh chemicals can be toxic to pets and children.  Prevention is about layered security.

So PREVENTION starts with YOU! Treat your skin, clothing, pets, homes and yards.  A little prevention goes a long way towards your defense against Lyme and other tick-borne diseases that are so very prevalent right here in our community. 



On Saturday April 29th, our 3rd Annual Midcoast Lyme Disease Support & Education conference brought over 600 residents and out of state visitors through the doors of the Wiscasset Community Center, not to mention special guests from Canada.  For over 8 hours, speakers educated those who attended on Lyme and tick-borne disease, sharing statistical data, whats being done and personal stories. There were over 57 vendors and community partners sharing products and services and countless medical providers engaging with the attendees.  So one day, under one roof, we brought all the resources needed to prevent and overcome, all free of charge, to those who attended.  If you were not able to attend, the entire day was professionally recorded and the DVD sets (include 2 dvds and a 50-page full color conference booklet) are available for purchase for $30 includes free shipping by sending an email to info@mldse.org

All throughout the month of May, we will continue to post about prevention and host talks and educational awareness events all throughout Midcoast Maine.  

For more information about Lyme and tick-borne diseases, prevention practices or referrals and support requests, please visit our website 

~ Paula


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