Borrelia burgdorferi is transmitted by which tick genus?

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Prepare for the NBME Microbiology Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each query comes with hints and detailed explanations. Ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

Borrelia burgdorferi is transmitted by which tick genus?

Explanation:
Lyme disease–causing Borrelia burgdorferi is transmitted by ticks belonging to the genus Ixodes. In North America, the primary vector is Ixodes scapularis, the blacklegged or deer tick. The bacteria reside in the tick and are passed to the host during a blood meal, typically after the tick has been attached for a day or more. The other ticks listed are responsible for different pathogens: Dermacentor variabilis transmits Rickettsia rickettsii (rocky mountain spotted fever), Amblyomma americanum is associated with Ehrlichia chaffeensis among others, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus transmits other diseases. Thus, Ixodes scapularis is the correct vector for Borrelia burgdorferi.

Lyme disease–causing Borrelia burgdorferi is transmitted by ticks belonging to the genus Ixodes. In North America, the primary vector is Ixodes scapularis, the blacklegged or deer tick. The bacteria reside in the tick and are passed to the host during a blood meal, typically after the tick has been attached for a day or more. The other ticks listed are responsible for different pathogens: Dermacentor variabilis transmits Rickettsia rickettsii (rocky mountain spotted fever), Amblyomma americanum is associated with Ehrlichia chaffeensis among others, and Rhipicephalus sanguineus transmits other diseases. Thus, Ixodes scapularis is the correct vector for Borrelia burgdorferi.

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