Lyme Disease

Thank you for contacting me about Lyme disease. 
 
I am aware that there are around 2,000 to 3,000 new cases of Lyme disease in England and Wales each year. As Lyme disease can be treated effectively if the symptoms are detected early, I agree that it is vital we continue to raise awareness of this condition.
 
You may be interested to know that the Department of Health has commissioned four separate reviews on the diagnosis, treatment and transmission of Lyme disease. The work will be clinically driven and evidence-based. This work will inform the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence, who published new guidelines on Lyme disease in 2018.
 
Early diagnosis is the key making progress and I know that Public Health England (PHE) continues to work with GPs and the public on this issue and. PHE produces public information leaflets on how people can protect themselves against tick bites, and what to do after a tick bite. 
 
The content and standard of medical training is the responsibility of the General Medical Council which must promote high standards of education to ensure that medical students and newly qualified doctors are equipped with the knowledge, skills and attitudes essential for professional practice. This includes recognising and treating Lyme disease.

Thank you once again for contacting me.