EPIDEMIOLOGY OF LYME-DISEASE IN FRANCE - LYME BORRELIOSIS IN THE REGION OF BERRY-SUD - A 6 YEAR RETROSPECTIVE

The purpose of this epidemiologic retrospective is to recognize the en demic nature of Lyme borreliosis in 'Berry', region of France, Fifty-n ine cases have been reported here during the past six years (1988-1994 ). An erythema migrans (EM), or a late manifestation concurrent with p ositive ELISA-test represents the main inclusion criterion (case defin ition used by the CDC). The results reveal a high incidence considerin g the limited information available in France. The farmer has been fou nd to be mainly at risk, with EM being observed in 49% of cases. In ge neral, late manifestations are rarely described. Peripheral neurologic al manifestations occur more frequently than those reported in the USA . The steps taken as a result of our study of Lyme disease are in acco rdance with the recommendations of the World Health Organization.