"Bitten: The Secret History of Lyme Disease and Biological Weapons" by Kris Newby is a compelling and meticulously researched narrative that delves into the complex and often misunderstood world of Lyme disease. The book presents itself as a riveting thriller, echoing the suspenseful tone of "The Hot Zone," and focuses on the story of Willy Burgdorfer, the scientist who discovered the Lyme microbe. Newby reveals Burgdorfer's involvement in developing bug-borne biological weapons during the Cold War, raising alarming questions about the origins of the Lyme disease epidemic that affects millions in the U.S.
The inspiration for Newby's exploration into this topic is deeply personal. After being bitten by a tick on Martha’s Vineyard, she suffered from Lyme disease, an experience shared by approximately 300,000 Americans annually. Her journey as a science writer led her to investigate why Lyme disease is so misunderstood and why patients are often mistreated.
Newby's findings are unsettling. She uncovers that Burgdorfer, involved in secret military experiments, believed the Lyme epidemic might have originated from a failed military experiment. The book navigates through various settings, from biological weapons facilities to cutting-edge research labs, uncovering disturbing truths about Lyme disease, its diagnosis, treatment, and the government's hesitance to acknowledge chronic Lyme as a disease.
Described as an infectious page-turner, "Bitten" is lauded for its ability to engage readers with its blend of personal narrative, historical facts, and investigative journalism. The book is seen as a crucial contribution to understanding the larger implications of Lyme disease, including its historical ties to U.S. biological warfare research.
Newby's work is compared favorably to other books on similar topics, like "Lyme Disease and the S.S. Elbrus" by Rachel Verdon and "Lab 257" by Michael Carroll. However, "Bitten" stands out for its engaging writing style and comprehensive documentation. The author's exploration of Lyme disease extends beyond the medical aspects, delving into the socio-political ramifications of the disease, the cover-up by authorities, and the impact on healthcare and insurance systems.
At its core, "Bitten" is a call to action, urging a reevaluation of mainstream medicine's approach to Lyme disease and advocating for change in the treatment of patients. Newby encourages readers to share the book with healthcare providers to raise awareness and improve attitudes towards Lyme disease victims. The book serves as a testament to the need for transparency, better care, and a more responsible approach by the government and medical community towards tick-borne diseases.
