Doctor issues urgent warning about 'silent' disease common in celebrities as humid weather replaces heatwave
Following the major heatwave in the UK, you might be relieved that temperatures are dropping once more and the rain has come back.
However, these humid or wet conditions can be the perfect breeding ground for a 'silent' disease many celebrities have been diagnosed with.
Most of us are aware of the risks of sunburn or heatstroke, but what happens when it's just humid?
Now we're not at risk of burning every time we step outside, you might be tempted to go for a hike or a long walk in the countryside.
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Be mindful about ticks, as a bite can cause a severe condition called Lyme disease, which the likes of Justin Bieber, Justin Timberlake, Bella Hadid and more have all been diagnosed with.
The condition is transmitted via tick bite, and many people aren't aware of the pesky bugs.
Urgent warning
Dr Suzanne Wylie, GP and Medical Adviser for IQdoctor has warned that it's actually worse when the rain arrives after a heatwave: "Many people associate ticks with hot, dry summer weather, but in reality ticks thrive in warm, humid environments."
She continued: "The combination of higher temperatures and periods of rainfall creates the damp conditions that ticks need to survive and remain active."
"After a wet spell followed by warmer weather, people may be more likely to encounter ticks in long grass, woodland, heathland and other green spaces," the doctor added, which is worth noting if you're a fan of the great outdoors.
"With much of the UK currently experiencing muggy conditions, intermittent rain and warmer temperatures, it's a timely reminder that tick season is very much underway," she continued.
"At the same time, more people are spending time outdoors walking, camping, gardening and exercising, which naturally increases the likelihood of coming into contact with ticks."
That's not to say you shouldn't go walking or spending time outside, but invest in a good insect repellent and be sure to give yourself the once over when home for any bites, as early treatment is essential.
What is Lyme disease?
The NHS defines Lyme disease a bacterial infection which is transmitted to humans through infected ticks.
One of the main visible signs of Lyme disease is a 'circular or oval shape rash' around a bite, often referred to as a 'bullseye' rash.
The distinctive mark doesn't always show up immediately, and can develop up to three months after being bitten.
It can take 'several weeks' for the ring to go down, with the NHS adding: "The rash can have a darker or lighter area in the centre and might gradually spread. It's not usually hot or itchy."
However, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reports that only 70 percent of sufferers will develop the tell-tale 'bullseye' rash.
Other signs to look out for include:
- A high temperature, or feeling hot and shivery
- Headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Tiredness and loss of energy
Antibiotics will be prescribed depending on the severity of the symptoms.
It is very important to finish the full course, even if your symptoms subside.
How common is Lyme disease?
Many high profile celebrities have been diagnosed with Lyme disease, including Justin Bieber, Justin Timberlake and Bella Hadid, which regularly makes headlines.
Shania Twain, Alec Baldwin, Kelly Osbourne, and Avril Lavigne have all also been diagnosed.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recorded 1,168 laboratory-confirmed acute Lyme disease cases in England throughout 2025, making it the the most common vector-borne disease in England.
This is an increase of 22%, up from 959 in 2024, however in 2023 there was 1,151 cases reported
It's worth noting that not every tick bite leads to Lyme disease, but it's important to check yourself for bites after walking in long grass or woodland. Ticks are often common on pets, too, so be sure to treat them.
Topics: Health, Lyme disease, Celebrity, NHS
Jen Thomas