Ticks, especially in the northeast, are continuing to be on the rise. The rate of the number of deer ticks carrying Lyme Disease is increasing as well.

Previous studies in the 90s related to prophylactic Doxycycline did not show significant differences in the infection rate of Lyme Disease. Since that time though, the percentage of adult deer ticks carrying Lyme has in increased to almost 50% According to the New York State Department of Health and nymphs at 25%.

Studies since 2010 have shown significant improvement in mitigating infection rate of Lyme disease after a tick bite with one 200mg dose of Doxycycline. Although clinical evidence has shown a two week course of 100mg twice per day to be more effective.

What to do if you are bitten by a tick:

If you notice a tick, remove it immediately with tweezers or a tick remover device. Make sure the head is removed. Save the tick to bring to the doctor or photograph in comparison to your fingernail and send it to them to identify what type of tick it is. Do not wait!

If you notice a bullseye rash anywhere on your body, get to the doctor. This may have been from a tick bite you did not notice.

Talk to your doctor about prophylactic antibiotics.