The Sneaky Side of Lyme Disease: Education of Iowa Campers on Lyme Disease
Work Type
Poster
Abstract
Lyme disease, known as Borreliella (Borrelia) burgdorferi,is the most common vector transmitted illness in the United States.
The spirochete disease is transmitted by the Ixodes tick bite which are generally found in wooded areas with tall brush, under leaves, and in wood piles. The rate of disease usually peaks during April through September and are found the most on hikers that are between 5-10 years old.
The classic sign of Lyme disease is often characterized by the bull’s-eyes rash known as erythema migrans (EM), but it is estimated that up to 30% do not show EM.
Research was conducted to identify what are commonly missed symptoms of Lyme disease and what are topics outdoorsmen would like to know about Lyme disease.
The research was presented to summer camp workers due to their high exposure to ticks and their involvement with children who are considered a high-risk demographic.
The goal of this project was to educate Iowa summer camp workers about the lesser-known side effects of Lyme disease. This camp is located in Clayton county which has the highest reported cases of Lyme disease in Iowa. The camp is completely outdoors and works with children between the ages of 6-18 years old.
Educating camp counselors on the symptoms to look out for besides the bullseye rash can help increase awareness of the common misdiagnosis of Lyme disease. Many people may notice unusual health symptoms after hiking but may not be able to identify a correlation to Lyme disease. Knowledge of the lesser known signs of Lyme disease can decrease the time it takes to seek medical attention.
Publication Date
5-17-2026
Citation Information
Post, Allison, "The Sneaky Side of Lyme Disease: Education of Iowa Campers on Lyme Disease" (2026). Student Works Physician Assistant. 18.
https://digitalcommons.dmu.edu/stu_pa/18
