In short: Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread by the bite of an infected tick. It occurs across the UK and Europe, especially in grassy and wooded areas. The most common early sign is a spreading circular or oval rash, usually 1 to 4 weeks after a bite. It is treated with antibiotics, and early treatment usually works well. There is currently no Lyme vaccine available in the UK, so preventing tick bites and removing ticks promptly are the best protection.

This guide, written by a Ready Health prescribing pharmacist and based on NHS and NICE guidance, explains how to prevent tick bites, recognise Lyme disease and when to get help.

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease (Lyme borreliosis) is caused by Borrelia bacteria. These are carried by some ticks, small spider-like creatures (arachnids, not insects) that live in woodland, moorland, long grass and sometimes parks and gardens. Ticks do not jump or fly; they climb onto people and animals brushing past, then bite and feed for several days. Not all ticks carry the bacteria, and the longer an infected tick stays attached, the higher the chance of infection.

Where in the UK can you catch Lyme disease?

Ticks are found throughout the UK. Higher-risk areas include grassy and wooded parts of southern England and the Scottish Highlands, but walkers in the North West, including the Lake District, the Forest of Bowland and the Yorkshire Dales, should also take care. Lyme disease is also found in many parts of Europe, North America and Asia. Tick activity peaks from spring to autumn.

What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?

Early symptoms

A circular or oval rash around the bite, called erythema migrans. It usually appears 1 to 4 weeks after the bite but can appear up to 3 months later. It often spreads gradually over several days, may have a lighter or darker centre (a "bullseye"), and is not usually hot or itchy. On brown and black skin it may look more like a bruise.
Flu-like symptoms such as a high temperature, headache, muscle and joint pain and tiredness.

Not everyone with Lyme disease gets a rash, and many people do not remember being bitten.

Later symptoms

If untreated, infection can spread and cause problems weeks to months later, including:

painful, swollen joints
nerve problems such as facial weakness (facial palsy), pain, numbness or tingling
heart rhythm problems
problems with memory or concentration

How is Lyme disease diagnosed and treated?

A typical erythema migrans rash after possible tick exposure is enough for diagnosis, and treatment should start without waiting for a blood test. Blood tests are used when symptoms are less clear, but they can be negative in the first few weeks after infection.

Lyme disease is treated with a course of antibiotics, usually for around three weeks. Most people recover fully, especially when treated early. Some people have ongoing symptoms such as tiredness or aches after treatment; speak to your GP if this happens.

In the UK, antibiotics are not routinely given after a tick bite if you have no symptoms. Instead, watch the area and your health for up to three months.

How do I prevent tick bites?

Stick to clear paths and avoid brushing through long grass, bracken and undergrowth.
Wear long sleeves and long trousers tucked into socks; light colours make ticks easier to spot.
Use an insect repellent that works against ticks, such as one containing DEET, on skin. Clothing can be treated with permethrin.
Check your skin and your children's skin after being outdoors, including hairlines, behind the ears, armpits, groin and behind the knees.
Check pets too, as they can bring ticks into the home.

How do I remove a tick safely?

Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick-removal tool.
Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
Pull upwards slowly and firmly without twisting or squeezing the body.
Clean the bite with soap and water or antiseptic, and wash your hands.
Note the date and keep an eye on the area for the next few weeks.

Do not burn the tick, crush it or cover it with creams, oils or alcohol, as this can increase the risk of infection.

When should I see a doctor?

See your GP or call NHS 111 if you have been bitten by a tick, or have been in an area where ticks are found, and you develop a spreading rash or flu-like symptoms. Get urgent help if you develop facial weakness, severe headache with a stiff neck, chest pain, palpitations or fainting.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a vaccine for Lyme disease?

Not currently in the UK. A candidate vaccine has completed late-stage trials, but it is not licensed here at the time of writing. Travellers to parts of Europe may instead be advised about the separate vaccine for tick-borne encephalitis, a different tick-borne infection.

Should I test the tick?

Testing ticks is not recommended to decide on treatment. Decisions are based on your symptoms.

Can you get Lyme disease more than once?

Yes. Having had Lyme disease does not protect you from future infections, so keep taking precautions.

Key takeaways

Lyme disease is spread by infected ticks found across the UK and Europe.
Look for a spreading circular rash or flu-like illness within three months of a bite.
Early antibiotic treatment is effective.
Prevent bites, check your skin after outdoor activities and remove ticks promptly and correctly.

Sources and further reading

Last reviewed: October 2026 by Shamir Patel, Independent Prescribing Pharmacist, Ready Health. This article is general information and does not replace advice from your own clinician.

Heading to forests or countryside abroad? Read our guide to tick-borne encephalitis, or book a travel health consultation at Ready Health in Standish, serving Wigan, Chorley and Bolton, for advice on your trip.