CCDR: Volume 40-11, May 29, 2014: Clinical aspects of Lyme disease

Inside this issue: Clinical aspects of Lyme disease

As summer approaches, consider this: Lyme disease is expanding its reach in Canada, the United States (US), Europe and Asia. A previous issue identified where Lyme disease occurs in Canada. In this issue, read about how Lyme disease presents, what is needed to make the diagnosis, current treatment recommendations and best practices for laboratory testing. See links below to find out where Lyme disease is most common in the US and abroad, and learn the four key prevention messages. Bring this to the attention of those who are planning to camp, hike or spend time in the woods.

Table of contents

Review articles
Lyme disease: clinical diagnosis and treatment
Hatchette TF, Davis I and Johnston BL

Laboratory diagnostics for Lyme disease
Lindsay LR, Bernat K and Dibernardo A

Useful links
Public Health Notice: Lyme disease
Public Health Agency of Canada

See this overview with information on risk to Canadians, how to prevent Lyme disease and many useful resources, such as Frequently Asked Questions and provincial websites.

International Travel and Health: Lyme borreliosis (Lyme disease)
World Health Organization

There are foci of Lyme borreliosis in forested areas of Asia, north-western, central and eastern Europe, and the US.

Lyme disease data
United States (US) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

In 2012, 95% of Lyme disease cases were reported from 13 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, Virginia and Wisconsin.

Lyme disease prevention messages
US CDC

Wear repellent. Check for ticks daily. Shower soon after being outdoors. Call your doctor if you get a fever or rash.

Next issue June 12, 2014: Measles