What are the early symptoms of Lyme disease?

The early symptoms of Lyme disease are characterized by a combination of fever, headache, and stiff neck. These symptoms typically appear within a few days to a few weeks after being bitten by an infected tick. Fever represents the body's natural response to infection, while headache and stiff neck are commonly associated with various infections, including neurological symptoms from Lyme disease, indicating that the bacteria may be affecting the central nervous system.

While other options mention symptoms that can be associated with different conditions or later stages of Lyme disease, the trio of fever, headache, and stiff neck accurately reflects the early manifestations recognized in the early localized or disseminated phase of Lyme disease. It is important to identify these early signs for timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent progression to more severe stages, which can include joint swelling and more chronic issues.