Brian Whittle has called on the First Minister to raise awareness of the early symptoms of Lyme disease.

The MSP for South Scotland took to the floor during First Minister’s Questions at Holyrood to ask what the Scottish Government was doing to ensure early diagnosis and treatment of the infection, which is spread by tick bites.

Brian sits on the Public Petitions Committee, who have heard evidence from patients who have experienced the chronic, debilitating effects of Lyme disease, and wants to see more done to raise awareness among the wider public as well as GPs.

Brian Whittle MSP said: “One of the biggest challenges in treating Lyme disease is early diagnosis. All too often people are bitten by a tick and then experience the early symptoms of Lyme disease, which can be a bit like getting the flu, without putting two and two together.

“There’s a clear need to raise awareness among the public and medics about the causes and symptoms of Lyme disease. I’m pleased the chief medical officer is working to raise awareness.”