Lyme disease: Cause, symptoms, prevention and treatment

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.