Students who are at high risk for contracting Lyme disease now can get the world’s first vaccine for the tick-born illness.

Mary Fosse, registered nurse in the Student Health Center’s international travel clinic, said a lot of students have been inquiring about LYMErix, a new vaccine approved by the Food and Drug Administration in December.

“It’s not for everyone just because it’s new. But if you do fall into the category of high risk, think about this,” Fosse said.

She said Lyme disease rates are fairly low in Iowa, and deciding whether to get the vaccine should depend on a person’s geographic location and likelihood of contact with greenery where ticks may be present.

“The incidents vary considerably on the state and county level,” Fosse said.

She said the vaccine is most valuable to students who are planning outdoor activities in areas such as New England, Wisconsin and Minnesota or countries where the disease is prevalent.

The vaccine, which is 97.8-100 percent effective if taken correctly, is administered in a series of three shots at $60 each.

“They all need to be completed before full immunity,” Fosse said.

Lyme disease, which was first discovered in Lyme, Conn., is defined as a bacterial infection that can lead to serious health problems, according to a brochure distributed by SmithKline Beecham Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of LYMErix.

“If untreated, it could lead to permanent joint and neurological damage,” Fosse said.

Donald Lewis, professor of entomology, said Lyme disease is transmitted by a tiny orange-colored, black-legged tick (nicknamed “deer tick” in the Midwest) in the nymph stage, when it is virtually unnoticeable.

“The bottom line is that little can be done with the tick itself, but be aware of the symptoms,” Lewis said.

Fosse said signs of infection include a rash, often in the shape of a bull’s eye and flu-like symptoms.

“It has benign symptoms, and is not easily diagnosed,” she said.

Fosse and Lewis advised precautionary measures such as using insect repellent, tucking pants into boots, wearing long sleeves and showering as soon as possible, regardless of the vaccine.