What preventive measure can help avoid Lyme disease?

Using insect repellent is a highly effective preventive measure against Lyme disease because the disease is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks. These ticks are often found in grassy, wooded areas, and individuals who engage in outdoor activities in these environments are at a higher risk of exposure. Applying an insect repellent that contains DEET or other EPA-registered active ingredients can greatly reduce the risk of tick bites.

Although wearing sunscreen is important for protecting against harmful UV rays, it does not provide any protection against ticks. Avoiding crowded places is a general safety measure and does not specifically relate to preventing Lyme disease, as the risk primarily comes from the environment rather than human interaction. Obtaining a flu shot, while essential for preventing influenza, does not have any impact on Lyme disease prevention since they are caused by different pathogens. Therefore, the use of insect repellent stands out as the key preventive strategy against Lyme disease.