Flu-Like Symptoms That Seem Unrelated
Within a few weeks after being bitten, some people develop mild flu-like symptoms. These often include:
Fever
Fatigue or weakness
Headaches
Muscle or joint pain
Loss of appetite
Because these symptoms resemble a common viral illness, they are frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Another early warning sign is swollen lymph nodes, particularly near the site of the bite. This swelling occurs as the immune system responds to the parasite. Lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin may feel tender or enlarged.