KOCHI: Lyme disease, a rare ailment transmitted from the bite of infected black-legged ticks, has been confirmed in a 56-year-old resident of Koovappady in Perumbavoor.
Though the patient had suffered symptoms last December and was treated for them, the confirmation was received from the National Institute of Virology, Pune, (NIV-Pune) only on Tuesday.
“We were suspicious about the cause of his health problems and hence sent his samples to the NIV to test for Borrelia IgM and IgG antibodies. The disease has been confirmed. The state health department will take action accordingly,” said an official with the district health department.
Dr Jilse George, senior consultant at Lisie Hospital, Kochi, who was among those who examined the patient, said the latter had complained of fever, giddiness, and back and leg pain. “He had consulted several doctors in Kothamangalam, and came here after failing to get any relief. Upon treating him, I had my doubts. The intervention of the Ernakulam district health department helped in confirming the disease,” he said.
“After the man was cured, officials from the department visited him and sent his blood samples to NIV-Pune. The department was vigilant; the community needs to be aware,” Dr Jilse said.
Symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, fatigue, and rashes. The disease can even affect joints and the brain.
“The severity differs from patient to patient. We were able to suspect the presence of the disease as the man’s symptoms were severe. Some patients may experience mild symptoms,” he said, while urging the public to be cautious.
“Wearing boots while going to marshy land and keeping the surroundings clean are important,” Dr Jilse said.
Lyme disease was earlier reported in 2013 in a 50-year-old woman. The doctors said the disease is prevalent in northern states.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, fatigue, and rashes. The disease can even affect joints and the brain. Wearing boots while going to marshy land and keeping the surroundings clean are important.