There May Be Hope in the Hunt for the Antidote for Lyme Disease

As everyone in our area is well aware, Lyme disease is a major subject within the northeast and especially here in Massachusetts. Chances are, you more than likely know someone with Lyme disease or know someone that knows someone with Lyme disease. It’s simply that prevalent in our area. Just the thought of a tick being found on ourselves or family members can invoke panic. The panic is probably a bit over the top, however, Lyme disease is simply that scary. There seems to be a tipping point in preventing Lyme disease and it might be headed to human trials in the very near future.

According to a recent article in Metro, “Though there is no current vaccine against Lyme disease, a Massachusett’s researcher may have found the key to a revolutionary drug that could prevent the debilitating infection – and he aims for human trials to begin as early as next year”. This is excellent news! In fact the revelation gets even better, “The injection would provide immediate protection against Lyme disease and that protection would last for about six months, which is the risk period when the ticks that transmit Lyme disease are active…”.

This is the best news regarding Lyme disease that has come about in recent years. There appears to be a light at the end of the tunnel. Due to the fact that nearly 300,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with Lyme disease each year, and warmer winters resulting in increased tick populations, the timing couldn’t be better. However, it’s important to remember this is not a vaccine, but rather a “pre-exposure prevention”. While everyone may want to celebrate, it’s important to remember that there was a Lyme disease vaccine called LYMErix, but it was ultimately pulled from shelves due to adverse effects to those upon which it was administered and resulted in a class action lawsuit.

As the premier tick control experts in Worcester, MA and surrounding areas, we strive to keep everyone informed on ticks and the diseases they carry. As always, stay tuned to our blog for up-to-date information regarding the latest news on ticks, the diseases they carry and potential treatments for those diseases and viruses. If you’re in need of tick control in Worcester, MA or surrounding areas, call Mosquito Squad of Worcester today at (508) 388-5640 or drop us an email at worcester@mosquitosquad.com. We look forward to hearing from you soon!