History of Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by deer ticks. It is most common in the Northern Hemisphere and it can become chronic if left untreated. The early stages of the diseases usually involve a distinct skin rash and flu-like symptoms. If Lyme disease becomes progressive, it can cause neurological conditions.

Naming of a Disease

Lyme disease gets its name from an outbreak in the mid-70s in a coastal Connecticut town called Lyme.

First Instance

Though named for the '70s outbreak, the first recorded instance of Lyme disease was in 1883 in Germany.

Connection Made Between Cause and Symptoms

In 1909, a Swedish physician connected the rash typical of Lyme disease with the bite of a deer tick.

Treatment

In 1983, doctors began using antibiotics to treat people with Lyme disease, Around this time, the 3 different stages of the disease were documented.

Vaccine

In 1999, the FDA approve LYMErix, a vaccination for the disease. It is removed from the market 3 years later after a series of lawsuits after people developed arthritis and Lyme disease from it.

Resources

• Lyme Disease Timeline