MI HR0155

Lyme disease is the most prevalent vector-borne disease in the United States, accounting for 90 percent of all vector-borne infections and causing a rash and flu-like symptoms including fever, muscle aches, headaches, and fatigue.

Reported cases of Lyme disease increased from 16,802 in 1998 to 27,444 in 2007, with cases reported in 49 states and the District of Columbia; actual cases are estimated to be approximately 10 times higher than reported figures.

Early-stage Lyme disease can be successfully treated with antibiotics, but the disease often goes undetected or is misdiagnosed, and if untreated can cause severe heart, neurological, eye, and joint problems leading to chronic illness.

Calls for increased federal funding for research on Lyme disease detection, surveillance, prevention, and treatment, along with enhanced physician education and public awareness campaigns.

Directs transmission of the resolution to the President of the United States Senate, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, and Michigan's congressional delegation.