Fall is more than just flu season

It’s important to protect yourself from tick and other insect bites when going outdoors. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that there are 300,000 new cases of Lyme’s Disease per year. Lyme’s Disease is at its peak when tick activity is highest during late spring, early summer and mid-fall. It is caused by bacteria transmitted by the bite of an infected tick. The longer a tick is attached, the greater the risk of getting the disease. Lyme’s is a multi-system disease, meaning it can be found in many different organs of the body. It is often called “the great imitator” as symptoms are similar to many other conditions.

WITH LYME’S DISEASE, SYMPTOMS MAY OCCUR DAYS OR MONTHS AFTER A TICK BITE:

• Flu-like illness
• Fever
• History of tick bite (you may not recall the bite)
• Headache
• Extreme fatigue
• Erythema Migrans (approximately 50% may get a rash, but only 9% get the classic bull’s eye rash)
• Red ear lobes
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (jaw pain; TMJ/TMJD)
• Neck and back pain
• Joint pain and swelling; bone pain
• For the full list of symptoms visit lymediseaseassociation.org

“I recommend that if patients develop fevers, rash, or arthralgia within weeks to a month after tick exposure to see their PCP or Landmark Provider for appropriate assessment and management, including the potential need for antibiotics.  Even without visibly seeing a tick, if camping or spending time in areas of Lyme Disease prevalence and experience these symptoms warrants evaluation by their Landmark provider.” – Dr. Mancuso, Chief Clinical Officer, Landmark Health

Like Lyme’s Disease, Powassan Disease is also at its peak when tick activity is highest. Powassan is a newer tick-borne virus that is transmitted by the bite of an infected tick, in the same way as Lyme’s Disease. The virus quickly reaches the brain leaving long-term neurological damage.

WITH POWASSAN DISEASE, SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:

• Fever
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Confusion; memory problems
• Trouble walking and talking
• Seizures

The Powassan is a rare virus that can cause death. The CDC recommends wearing repellent whenever you are outdoors, and that you check for ticks daily and shower soon after being outdoors. Call your doctor or Landmark provider if you get a fever or rash. To learn about other Tickborne Diseases in the United States, visit https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/Diseases/index.html

As we move out of tick season mid-fall, it is critical to prepare for flu season! It’s especially important to get a flu vaccination in your senior years because we tend to get more sick and take more time to recover as we age. Getting vaccinated also helps decrease the number of people who will become ill in our community. It’s not only good for you, but a good service to the community, too!

EVERY FLU SEASON IS DIFFERENT.

An annual flu shot is the best way to reduce your risk of getting sick. Landmark providers are offering free flu shots in the comfort of your home during a wellness visit. Anyone can get the flu, but those 65 years and older – and people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions – are at high risk of developing serious flu-related complications if they get sick.

FLU FACTS:

The flu is a disease caused by the influenza virus. It is easily spread person to person.

Symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Cough
• Headache
• Runny/stuffy nose

These symptoms can worsen your other medical illnesses like congestive heart failure (CHF), asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and diabetes. Getting the flu vaccine reduces your chances of getting the flu by 60%!

WHO SHOULD GET THE FLU SHOT?

The flu vaccine comes in 2 different doses. The high dose vaccine contains 4x the amount of flu-fighting power as contained in the regular-dose flu shots. The additional protection is intended to create a stronger immune response in the person getting the vaccine. The high dose vaccine is recommended for everyone 65 years and older, while the low dose is for everyone from infancy to 64 years old.

WHEN SHOULD YOU GET THE FLU SHOT?

Every year between August and April.

WHERE CAN YOU GET THE FLU SHOT?

At your primary care provider’s office, at your pharmacy, at a Flu clinic at your senior center, or in the comfort of your home during a Landmark wellness visit.

LANDMARK CAN TREAT YOUR FLU SYMPTOMS IN THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME.

If prevention methods do not work and you do get the flu, Landmark can treat you in your home with IV fluids, anti-nausea medication, anti-viral prescriptions, blood work and X-rays, along with other appropriate interventions as determined by your Landmark provider.

You can learn more about the Influenza Virus at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm.

If you are a Landmark member, you are eligible to get the flu shot for free in your home! Call Landmark today to schedule a wellness visit and request your free flu shot. Supplies may be limited. Call 1-877-260-7647, we will answer 24/7!