Do deer transmit Lyme disease?
No. Lyme disease is transmitted by the deer tick. Deer do not carry or transmit Lyme disease bacteria. Deer, are simply a food source for the adult ticks. Although this might sound like a nuanced distinction, it’s actually highly significant, because the transmission of disease depends on the tick, not the deer. The disease can be transmitted only if a tick is carrying it, and if the tick is attached to a person’s body for more than a day. Thus, when you or your children come in from the great outdoors, make time for a shower or bath, and check for ticks. This is particularly important in the summer and early fall, and particularly if you live along the northeastern coast of the United States from Massachusetts to Maryland, where the disease is most likely to occur. Deer ticks are smaller than dog ticks, so check carefully. Don’t allow children to play in dark, damp places; if they enjoy outdoor walks or events near wooded areas, be sure that they are aware to check for ticks when they
