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Is there a specific age group that is more susceptible to getting Lyme disease?

Tanja Zarfat

Hey there!

Great question! So, to answer your question, yes, there is a specific age group that is more susceptible to getting Lyme disease. But before I dive into that, let me give you a brief overview of what Lyme disease is and how it’s transmitted.

Lyme disease is an infectious disease that is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. It’s transmitted through the bite of an infected tick, specifically the black-legged tick or deer tick. These ticks are commonly found in densely wooded areas and long grassy fields. The symptoms of Lyme disease can vary but typically include a bull’s eye rash, fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and joint pain.

Now, back to your question. So, research has shown that people of all ages can contract Lyme disease, but certain age groups are more susceptible. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the age group with the highest incidence of Lyme disease are children aged 5-9 years old and adults aged 55-59 years old.

Children are more susceptible to getting Lyme disease because they are often playing outside in areas where ticks are present. They may also not be as diligent about checking for ticks after being outside, which can increase their chances of contracting the disease. Additionally, children may not be able to communicate their symptoms as effectively as adults, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.

As for adults aged 55-59 years old, their increased susceptibility may be due to several factors. Research has shown that older adults have a weakened immune system, which can make them more susceptible to getting Lyme disease. They may also have pre-existing health conditions that can increase their risk.

It’s also worth noting that people who engage in outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, and gardening, are at an increased risk of getting Lyme disease. This is because they are more likely to come into contact with ticks.

The good news is that there are steps that can be taken to prevent Lyme disease. These include:

- Applying insect repellent
- Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants
- Tucking pants into socks or boots
- Conducting regular tick checks
- Promptly removing any ticks that are found

In conclusion, while people of all ages can contract Lyme disease, children aged 5-9 years old and adults aged 55-59 years old are more susceptible. However, taking preventative measures can greatly reduce the risk of getting infected.

Hope this helps!