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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.

  1. 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.

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