Lyme disease: Information for the public
HPSC is Ireland's specialist agency for the surveillance of infectious diseases. Disease surveillance involves the collection, analysis and understanding of information about diseases. For more information on HPSC visit the About Us section of the HPSC website.
HPSC does not diagnose or treat patients so can only provide two types of information for the general public on Lyme disease:
- Factsheets for the general public
HPSC produces factsheets for the general public on infectious diseases. Factsheets for the general public are available for Lyme disease and for how doctors test for Lyme. - Disease surveillance reports
Production of disease surveillance reports on Lyme disease involves the ongoing collection of information from people diagnosed with a severe form of Lyme disease which affects the nervous system, called neuroborreliosis. This information is used to monitor the population's health in relation to Lyme disease and to develop health messages to help the population prevent Lyme disease. Disease surveillance reports on Lyme disease are published annually and quarterly. The Lyme disease surveillance reports are available on the HPSC website.
HPSC does not provide advice to individuals relating to:
- laboratory tests for Lyme disease
- treatment of Lyme disease
- which doctors (in Ireland or abroad) a patient should consult in the case of suspected Lyme disease.
- providing any form of clinical second opinion on your medical condition. If you feel that you want referral for a second opinion, this option should be discussed with your GP or Hospital Consultant.
If you are concerned that you might have Lyme disease or if you have any questions about a diagnosis of Lyme disease, you should talk to your General Practitioner or your hospital consultant.
Last updated: 8 February 2019