Organism is capable of creating more intense symptoms
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic, Minnesota, have discovered a new species of bacteria which causes Lyme disease.
Borrelia mayonii is similar to the current strain of bacteria, however the organism is capable of creating more intense symptoms.
Dr. Bobbi Pritt, director of the Clinical Parasitology Laboratory at the Mayo Clinic, made the discovery during routine testing for Lyme disease.
She said that the bacteria causes similar symptoms to the current strain, like fever, back rash and neck pain. But she added that patients are “more likely to have nausea and vomiting” and that rashes are more diffused.
Just like the current strain of bacteria, borrelia mayonii passes to humans through the bite of an infected tick.
Scientists say that traditional methods to treat Lyme disease have worked in cases caused by the new bacteria and protection is similar too.
Residents in the Minnesota and Wisconsin area are advised to stay out of tall grasses, wear long sleeved clothing, and use an insect repellent.
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its online reporting service for dead wild birds.
