Lyme disease is transmitted by?

• A. Deer ticks
• B. Mosquitoes
• C. Fleas
• D. Sandflies

Answer: (A)

Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks, specifically the black-legged or deer tick. The bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi travels to humans during a blood meal, and transmission is most likely after the tick has attached for about 24–48 hours. Because the tick is tiny in its nymphal stage and most active in spring and summer, outdoor exposure in wooded or brushy areas poses the highest risk. Mosquitoes, fleas, and sandflies do not carry Lyme disease; they transmit other pathogens. In a wildlife rehab or field setting, focus on preventing tick bites (wear protective clothing, use repellents, perform regular tick checks after outdoor work) and promptly remove any attached ticks to reduce the chance of transmission.