August 08, 2007

Bush Was Treated For Lyme Disease Last Year

UPDATED.

Word to the wise: When clearing brush back at the ranch, it's best to wear protective clothing and lots of DEET.

The White House made public the results of President Bush's annual physical exam today, and AP picked up something buried in the "past medical history" section: The commander in chief was treated for Lyme disease last August. Doctors say the treatment worked and that the "early, localized" rash that tipped them off last summer hasn't spread or returned, as is sometimes the case with Lyme disease.

White House spokesman Scott Stanzel defended the decision not to disclose Bush's brush with the tick-borne illness. "It was a rash," he said. "It's not uncommon for the president to have tick bites when he's out biking." He explained that the rash was discovered after Bush's annual physical last year, which is why it was not disclosed then.

As for this year's physical results? The president's doctors have declared him "fit for duty" and in "superior" health.

FindLaw.com has a copy of Bush's medical history summary.

Posted at 5:12 PM
Posted to: Bush Administration
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