Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne disease in the northern hemisphere and its incidence is rising, leading to increased public health concerns. It is important to understand the nature of the disease because this defines the limitations of current understanding and knowledge. Significant uncertainties in diagnostics and treatment remain. There is an important role for the nurse in raising awareness, giving advice on prevention and correct tick removal, and in recognising signs of Lyme disease to assist access to prompt medical attention. Increased awareness, further research, improved diagnostics and advances in therapeutics are urgently required.
Ticks carrying the bacteria causing Lyme disease, Borrelia, are endemic throughout the UK. The number of ticks is rising, and the incidence of Lyme disease is slowly increasing. It is important that nurse are competent in assessing and managing patients who present with tick bites or suspected Lyme disease. A well informed and holistic approach will enhance quality of care and patient satisfaction, and provide opportunities for disease prevention and effective treatment.
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