Related Experiment Videos
Lyme disease in military personnel
R P Gregory1, A D Green, R T Merry
1Neurology Dept, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Royal Air Force Wroughton, Swindon.
Abstract:
The tick responsible for Lyme disease is common in areas inhabited by deer. This should theoretically put military personnel at increased risk. A history of tick bite is uncommon and the characteristic skin rash often absent. Two examples of servicemen with neurological Lyme disease without cutaneous manifestations are discussed, and six other cases referred to the RAF Institute of Pathology and Tropical Medicine since 1987 briefly reviewed. Five of the cases contracted the disease in Germany and four were dependents. Lyme disease is under-recognised and under-reported, so that the scale of the problem cannot be determined. It is recommended that wooded areas inhabited by deer should not be frequented without adequate clothing, particularly in the early summer months when tick activity is at its greatest.
Insights
Military personnel face risks from Lyme disease, often without typical symptoms like tick bites or rashes. Early summer precautions are advised due to high tick activity in deer-populated areas.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Infectious Diseases
- Military Health
Background:
- Lyme disease, transmitted by ticks common in deer habitats, poses a potential risk to military personnel.
- The disease's presentation can be atypical, with tick bites and skin rashes frequently absent.
Observation:
- Two cases of neurological Lyme disease in servicemen without cutaneous manifestations are detailed.
- A review of six additional cases at the RAF Institute of Pathology and Tropical Medicine since 1987 is presented.
- Five cases were acquired in Germany, with four involving dependents.
Findings:
- Lyme disease is under-recognized and under-reported, making its true prevalence difficult to ascertain.
- Neurological manifestations of Lyme disease can occur without the typical skin rash.
Implications:
- Increased awareness of Lyme disease in military populations is crucial.
- Recommendations include avoiding tick-infested wooded areas, especially in early summer, and wearing protective clothing.