Describe the 2-Year Cycle of Lyme Disease, Including All Hosts

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The Answer is Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. The 2-year cycle of Lyme disease involves several hosts and stages of the tick's life cycle.

In the first year of the cycle, adult female ticks lay eggs in the environment. These eggs hatch into larvae, which then feed on small mammals such as mice and birds. During this feeding, the larvae may acquire the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium from an infected host.

In the second year of the cycle, the infected larvae molt into nymphs. These nymphs then seek out a new host to feed on, which can include larger mammals such as deer, as well as humans. During this feeding, the infected nymphs can transmit the bacterium to their new host through their saliva.

Once infected, the new host can develop Lyme disease if the bacterium is not promptly removed. If the infected host is a tick, it can then go on to lay eggs and continue the cycle.

Overall, the 2-year cycle of Lyme disease involves the transmission of the bacterium between ticks and various hosts, including small mammals, larger mammals, and humans. This complex cycle contributes to the spread of Lyme disease in endemic areas.

Describe the 2-Year Cycle of Lyme Disease, Including All Hosts

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