health
Pfizer Seeks To Introduce Lyme Vaccine, As States Face ‘Worst Tick Season Ever,’ Increase in Alpha-Gal Syndrome Meat Allergies
What could go wrong?
TL;DR
- Pfizer's new Lyme disease vaccine, VALOR, demonstrated over 70% efficacy in preventing the disease in trials.
- The vaccine works by creating antibodies that inhibit the Borrelia bacterium's transmission from ticks to humans.
- The eastern US is anticipating a severe tick season, with rising cases of Lyme disease and alpha-gal syndrome.
- Alpha-gal syndrome is a meat allergy triggered by tick bites, potentially causing life-threatening reactions.
- A previous Lyme vaccine, LYMErix, was withdrawn from the market due to reported side effects and lawsuits.
- Public health officials are advising increased precautions against tick bites, such as wearing protective clothing and checking for ticks.