Summer Diseases You Could Get in the United States - Lyme, West Nile & More

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Finally, it's summer time. The season comes with sunny weather, and with it comes a unique range of illnesses.

1. Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is caused by the bacteria transmitted through the bite of deer ticks. According to Washington Post, there are about 300,000 people in the United States who get infected every year.

Signs and symptoms include: dizziness, chills, fever, joint swelling, muscle pains, palpitations, numbness, tingling, shooting pains and swollen lymph nodes. Sometimes, it comes with rashes and headaches, according to Medicine Net.

The best way to prevent this disease is to avoid woody or grassy areas as much as possible. If you must go, wear protective clothing such as long pants and long-sleeved shirts with closed-toe shoes. When back at home, closely inspect self to check for deer ticks.

If you suspect that you or a family member has been bitten, go see a doctor. Antibiotics are most effective when administered right away.

2. West Nile Disease

It is a disease caused by a virus from an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected if they have fed on infected birds.

Common mild infection signs and symptoms are fever, fatigue, back pain, body aches, head ache. In some cases, it can also cause skin rashes, eye pain, and swollen lymph glands, according to Mayo Clinic.

To prevent this, do not go outside when mosquitoes are most active. If bitten and symptoms above are showing, go see a doctor.

3. Asthma Attacks

Summer increases air pollution, pollen, and mold growth because of high humidity, according to Live Science.

The season could be most dangerous for asthma sufferers, whether child or adult. Since triggers vary with asthmatics, it is best to keep maintenance medications and avoid frolicking too much to lower the risk of attacks.

4. Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia refers to higher than normal body temperature caused by heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat cramps, according to Medicine Net.

Symptoms of hyperthermia may include: fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, weakness and vomiting.

To prevent heat-related illnesses from setting off hyperthermia, avoid outdoor activities during the peak hours of the sun. Remember to regularly hydrate yourself during these hot days.

5. Coxsackie Virus

This virus commonly affects younger children and can commonly cause hand, foot, and mouth disease.

According to Kid's Health, infection from the virus may or may not cause symptoms. If it does, it is reported that those infected suddenly develop headache, muscle aches and high fever. In some cases, it can also cause nausea, sore throat and abdominal discomfort.  The fever can last up to 3 days and will disappear on its own.