Lyme disease is a serious illness infecting an estimated 300,000 annually. It can mimic fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, depression, Multiple Sclerosis and ALS. The CDC’s description of Lyme disease is, “…caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks. Typical symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrains. If left untreated, infection can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system. Lyme disease is diagnosed based on symptoms, physical findings (e.g., rash), and the possibility of exposure to infected ticks.  Laboratory testing is helpful if used correctly and performed with validated methods. Most cases of Lyme disease can be treated successfully with a few weeks of antibiotics. Steps to prevent Lyme disease include using insect repellent, removing ticks promptly, applying pesticides, and reducing tick habitat. The ticks that transmit Lyme disease can occasionally transmit other tickborne diseases as well.

Unsuccessful antibiotic treatment statistics for Lyme disease as explained by CEO of Lymedisease.org, Lorraine Johnson include:

* About 36% (est. range 20-36%) of people remain ill

* 25% of the people end up on disability

* 42% have had to stop working