Cases of Lyme Disease on the rise in Virginia

One local doctor blames the growing deer population

By: Meagan Farley | WSLS 10
Published: May 12, 2010

ROANOKE - Lyme disease is on the rise in the Commonwealth, and locally.

"We are definitely seeing more cases of Lyme Disease. In fact, I just saw a case this morning," said Dr. Kevin Kelleher, who practices in Roanoke.

Dr. Kelleher's patient had the tell tale sign, a bullseye rash that showed up on her left hip just below the waistline. Dr. Kelleher says in the last two weeks he has treated at least five patients for Lyme Disease. "In most cases when we find out what it is we can get rid of it," Dr. Kelleher said.

People can be bitten by a tick anywhere outdoors, but mainly in field grass. The spike in cases, Dr. Kelleher blames on the growing deer population. "It started in the northeast corridor and now it is spreading to Virginia and North Carolina."

If a person has been outdoors, the Virginia Department of Health says to check your body immediately. It isn't likely for the Lyme Disease infection to occur unless the tick has been on you for 36 hours.

If a person is infected with Lyme Disease, there are a number of symptoms. They include a fever, body aches and head aches. There is also a bullseye rash that can form. Dr. Kelleher says if a person suspects it may be Lyme Disease-consult your physician. "We are humans too and we may not be thinking of it. At least ask your doctor to run a test and find out."

Also, Kelleher says humans aren't the only one seeing Lyme Disease cases spike.

"Cases in dogs is far exceeding exposure in humans and is going crazy in this area."

Also, people can use household repellent containing Deet to repel the ticks and stop the bites in the first place.