UK Lyme Disease: What We Know and What We Don’t

Lyme disease, caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferiremains the primary tick-borne pathogen affecting dogs and people in the UK. Confirmed human cases are increasing year on year and dogs have been found to be carrying ticks infected with B. burgdorferi. The increasing risk of this disease in both dogs and owners makes prevention of exposure to B. burgdorferivital for pets and people whose lifestyle puts them at particular risk of infection. This article reviews current information on the diagnosis of Lyme disease and its prevention. It also highlights the many knowledge gaps surrounding Lyme disease in UK pets.