Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium transmitted by tick bites. It can affect many organs of the body. Scientific progress has resulted in several antibiotics. Further research promises new tests, medicines and vaccines.
Disease: Lyme Disease
Last update: June 2006
Intro
FAQ
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What is it?
Lyme disease is an infectious and inflammatory illness caused by a bacterium transmitted by the bites of ticks. The disease can affect many organs of the body. It causes a characteristic skin rash and influenza-type symptoms early on. More serious symptoms can develop months or years later.
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Who gets it?
Lyme disease tends to be contracted by children aged 5 to 9 years old and adults aged 50 to 54, with children being twice as likely to get it. In Europe, as in the United States, there are areas in which the annual incidence reaches 160 cases per 100,000. Forest workers are the most exposed population.
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What can be done about it?
If diagnosed early, antibiotics can cure the disease. Over the years, many antibiotics have been developed by the pharmaceutical industry. Different types may be used for different stages of the disease. Other medicines may be used to treat other symptoms; for example stiff joints may be treated with anti-inflammatory medicines.
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What does the future hold?
Research is underway to develop better means of diagnosing, treating, and preventing the disease, by vaccines against the Lyme disease bacterium. Recently, the gene sequence of the bacterium has been identified. It is hoped that this will lead to other medicines and vaccines.