Lyme disease is a disease that can cause heart and nervous system infections if left untreated and a local support group is attempting to raise awareness on the issue and provide support for those who suffer from it.

The Nor-Cal Chico Lyme support group is a non-profit organization that started for the support of people and families who have been affected by Lyme disease. They have been meeting once a month, on every third Monday, since July of 2012.

Lyme disease is caused by the transfer of bacterium from the bites of ticks. Symptoms include fevers, headaches, fatigue, and skin rashes. This disease can be treated and cured if diagnosed very early, but only 25 to 50 percent of people know when they have been bit by ticks, so many do not know that they been infected and go untreated for long periods of time. This leads to serious complications in the heart and nervous systems.

The group members have all had different experiences and treatments and come together once and share their stories. Treatments for individuals stem from antibiotics and probiotics to a “Shake ‘N’ Bake” procedure where a person has their body temperature raised to high levels in order to kill the disease.

Both methods have proved effective, but often only provide temporary relief.

The Nor-Cal Chico Lyme support group will be holding a fundraiser on May 21 at 1078 Gallery. Its next meeting will be held on April 18 at the Congregation Beth Israel.

Roberto Fonseca can be reached at [email protected] or @rjfonseca13 on Twitter.