With bipartisan support, Lyme research bill moves forward

Commentary: The Poughkeepsie Journal reported today on the Lyme research bill moving ahead in Congress. “The Tickborne Disease Research Accountability and Transparency Act was adopted into a larger medical research bill by the House Energy and Commerce Committee Thursday. In a distinct display of bipartisan cooperation, the larger “21st Century Cures Act” was unanimously approved by the committee’s members”. This bill will ensure that Lyme physicians and patient advocates have a seat at the table to help improve outcomes in those with “chronic or persistent symptoms, infections and co-infections”. I have seen Lyme disease and multiple co-infections (like Babesia, Bartonella and Mycoplasma species) persist in patients despite standard treatment, causing disabling symptoms. Although the data is published in the peer reviewed medical literature and reported at international medical conferences, the politics surrounding Lyme disease and a lack of proper communication between scientists and clinicians have impeded progress. I agree with Dr Leigner that this bill is a major step forward, and that the bill “would level the playing field for researchers, clinicians and patients who have battled chronic Lyme disease in the face of federal denials of its existence”. Thanks to John Ferro and the PJ team for their continued coverage of the science and politics of Lyme disease.

With bipartisan support, Lyme research bill moves forward, John Ferro, Poughkeepsie Journal