Kochi: A 56-year-old Koovappady resident has been diagnosed with Lyme illness

One of the verified cases of the uncommon illness Lyme disease, which is spread by the bite of infected black-legged ticks, is a 56-year-old inhabitant of Koovappady in Perumbavoor.

Even though the patient had been treated for symptoms since December of last year, the National Institute of Virology, Pune (NIV-Pune) did not provide confirmation until this past Tuesday.

We submitted his samples to the NIV for testing for Borrelia IgM and IgG antibodies since we were dubious regarding the source of his health issues. The illness is verified. A district health department representative said that the state health agency will respond appropriately.

Among those who evaluated the patient was Dr. Jilse George, senior consultant at Lisie Hospital in Kochi. She said that the patient had complained of back and leg discomfort, fever, and giddiness. “After seeing many physicians in Kothamangalam and without receiving any relief, he came to us. After treating him, I wasn’t sure. The illness was confirmed thanks to the Ernakulam district health department’s assistance, he added.

“Departmental representatives visited the guy after his recovery and sent blood samples to NIV-Pune. Dr. Jilse said, “The community needs to be aware; the department was vigilant.”

Lyme disease is characterized by fever, headache, lethargy, and rashes. The brain and joints may also be impacted by the illness.

Every patient’s severity is different. Because of the man’s significant symptoms, we were able to guess that the illness was present. He cautioned the public to exercise caution, stating that some people may only exhibit moderate symptoms.

“It’s important to keep the environment clean and to wear boots when visiting marshy areas,” Dr. Jilse said.

A 50-year-old lady was previously reported to have had Lyme disease in 2013. The illness is common in northern areas, according to the physicians.

Signs and symptoms

Lyme disease is characterized by fever, headache, lethargy, and rashes. The brain and joints may also be impacted by the illness. It’s crucial to maintain the area tidy and wear boots while visiting marshy areas.