Lyme disease is an infection caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium. It is transmitted to humans by the bites of infected black-legged ticks. Among the symptoms of Lyme disease are headache, fatigue, and a fever. A healthcare provider will make a Lyme disease diagnosis based on symptoms, physical findings (rash, for example), and the possibility of exposure to infected ticks. While laboratory testing is helpful in the disease's later stages, it is not generally recommended when a patient has the characteristic rash referred to as "erythema migrans." Lyme disease can usually be treated by taking prescribed antibiotics for a few weeks. A few of the things that you can do to prevent Lyme disease include keeping the area around your home well landscaped, using integrated pest management, and removing ticks promptly. Patients who have removed a tick and would like to have it tested for Lyme disease can contact their local health department to see whether it offers this service.