How long does lyme disease stay in the blood stream?

Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, can persist in the bloodstream for varying durations depending on the individual and the stage of the infection. In early localized Lyme disease, the bacteria may be present for a few weeks to months if untreated. With appropriate antibiotic treatment, the bacteria are typically cleared from the bloodstream within a few weeks. However, some patients may experience lingering symptoms or complications, which can last for months or even years, despite the absence of detectable bacteria.