Lyme Disease

by

Lyme Disease Update – Private Memebrs Bill

As a hunter, Lyme disease is a very scary possibility each time I venture into the woods.  But as much as it is a scary possibility for me, it is a debilitating reality for a growing many Canadians and American alike.

Unfortunately, this disease often takes second stage to many of the more prominent diseases, however, for the afflicted, it is no less damaging, and no less destructive.  Sadly, the reality is this disease is often miss-diagnosed and treatment must often be sought out side of the country.

So when I heard that action was being taken to provide solutions, on a federal level in the form of a private members bill, I was ecstatic.

Currently in its second reading and heading for a third, Bill C-442 hopes to convene a Canada wide conference to develop a national strategy on preventing and dealing with Lyme disease.

For those of you not familiar with this Bill I have attached links to media coverage of the bill (link 1) and to a summary of the bill itself (link 2)

http://ottawa.ctvnews.ca/making-a-federal-case-out-of-lyme-disease-1.1712200

http://openparliament.ca/bills/41-2/C-442/

Here’s hoping we are one step closer to solving the endemic that is Lyme disease in Canada.

Cheers from the Wild

Albert

by

Lyme Disease Awareness

I recently found out that Steave Rinella, one of America’s most prominent young hunters and food advocates was diagnosed with Lyme Disease.  I felt compelled to post about this issue to raise awareness amongst Canadian Hunters.

Lyme disease is present throughout southern Ontario.  Transmitted by a small insect know as a deer tick, this disease is caused by a bacterium known as Borrelia Burgdorferi.  The disease is treatable, but gets progressively worse if left with out medical attention.

“The first symptom of the disease may include the appearance of a red target like rash around the bite.  Although this rash is not always present on an infected individual.

The common symptoms are:

  • fatigue;
  • chills;
  • fever;
  • headache;
  • muscle and joint pain; and
  • swollen lymph nodes.

If untreated, the second stage of the disease, known as disseminated Lyme disease, can last up to  several months and include:

  • central and peripheral nervous system disorders;
  • multiple skin rashes;
  • arthritis and arthritic symptoms;
  • heart palpitations; and
  • extreme fatigue and general weakness.

If the disease remains untreated, the third stage can last months to years with symptoms that can include  recurring arthritis and neurological problems.”  – Public Health Agency of Canada

As an avid outdoor enthusiast I take Lyme disease very seriously and perform self checks after every outing in the woods.  This is a good habit to get into and can lead to early detection of a bite.  If bitten, see your local doctor or health clinic for removal and to obtain a test for Lyme disease.  Be safe out there!

Cheers From the Wild

Albert

Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation

http://canlyme.com/

Great source for info on Lyme Disease:

http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/id-mi/lyme-fs-eng.php

Steve Rinella’s personal Site and TV series website:

http://www.stevenrinella.com/

http://themeateater.com/