Rep. Joe Wilson taking antibiotics for possible Lyme disease

Republican Rep. Joe Wilson (S.C.) this week began experiencing the symptoms of Lyme disease after working in his yard.

Wilson’s office said in a statement that he “contracted an illness” while doing yard work earlier this week. The illness exhibited the symptoms of Lyme disease.

According to Wilson’s office, the congressman is taking antibiotics, is not contagious and “is looking forward to a speedy recovery.” Wilson’s office said Friday that he expects to recover in time to begin a week of scheduled events in his district. The first event is scheduled Monday morning in Lexington, S.C.

Lyme disease is typically spread through an infected tick bite, and can exhibit symptoms that sometimes mimic symptoms of the flu, including chills, fever, muscle pain, fainting and itching. Lyme disease can cause more serious problems if left untreated.