There are many diseases that fleas and ticks can cause for your pets or children. Some of these diseases include:
1. Lyme disease – Lyme disease is an infection caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. Lyme disease can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fever, rash, and joint pain. If left untreated can cause permanent damage.
2. Rocky Mountain spotted fever – Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a tick-borne illness that can be deadly if not treated promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical, as the disease can progress rapidly. Symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever typically appear 3-12 days after a person is bitten by an infected tick. The most common symptom is a sudden, severe headache. Other early symptoms may include fever, nausea and vomiting, muscle pain, and lack of energy. A few days after the onset of these symptoms, a distinctive rash may develop, beginning on the wrists and ankles and spreading to the palms and soles. The rash may eventually spread to the rest of the body.
3. Anaplasmosis – Anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease that can infect both animals and humans. The most common symptom of anaplasmosis is fever, but the disease can also cause other symptoms such as headache, muscle pain, chills, and nausea. If left untreated, anaplasmosis can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia or meningitis.
These are just some of the many diseases that fleas and ticks can transmit to your pets or children. It is important to get your pet treated for fleas and ticks on a regular basis and to check them for these pests regularly. If you think your pet or child may have been exposed to fleas or ticks, contact your veterinarian or doctor immediately.
