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Detecting the Lyme Disease Spirochete, Borrelia Burgdorferi, in Ticks Using Nested PCR
Published on: February 4, 2018
21.9K
Lyme disease, Virginia, USA, 2000-2011
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|October 2, 2014
Summary
Lyme disease risk is shifting in Virginia. Higher elevations show more infected ticks, contrary to previous models, suggesting a need for increased vigilance.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Vector-borne diseases
- Environmental science
Background:
- Lyme disease incidence and geographic range are expanding in the United States.
- Previous models predicted coastal tick distribution and limited elevational range in the mid-Atlantic.
- Human Lyme disease cases are notably increasing at higher elevations in Virginia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the discrepancy between predicted tick distribution and rising Lyme disease cases in Virginia.
- To analyze the spatial distribution and genetic relationship of Ixodes scapularis ticks in Virginia.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of human Lyme disease data from 2000-2011.
- Field collection and density assessment of host-seeking Ixodes scapularis ticks across elevation gradients.
- Genetic analysis of tick populations to determine relationships to northern and southern populations.
Main Results:
- Significantly higher densities of infected ticks were observed at higher elevation sites compared to lower ones.
- Ixodes scapularis tick populations in Virginia exhibit closer genetic ties to northern populations.
- Observed tick distribution contradicts earlier environmental modeling predictions.
Conclusions:
- Lyme disease risk in Virginia is increasing at higher elevations, diverging from previous distribution models.
- The genetic affinity of Virginia ticks to northern populations may influence their ecological behavior and disease transmission potential.
- Clinicians and epidemiologists must remain vigilant regarding the evolving spatial dynamics of Lyme disease risk.
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