In the upcoming episodes of the beloved ITV soap, viewers will witness a dramatic turn as young Joseph gets rushed to the hospital, leaving his family in a state of panic. Doctors deliver concerning news to his anxious parents and grandparents, unveiling a distressing diagnosis.

This development follows a gripping storyline where Gemma, played by Dolly-Rose Campbell, faced accusations of harming her stepson, leading to her removal from the household by social services. The intrigue deepens as the plot now delves into Joseph’s health struggles.

Collaborating closely with Lyme Disease UK, the show’s creators meticulously crafted these scripts, ensuring accuracy in depicting symptoms and treatments associated with the illness.

Julia Knight, a retired paediatric nurse and volunteer at Lyme Disease UK, shared insights into the collaborative process, saying, ‘Working with the Coronation Street team has been incredibly rewarding. We aimed to create a storyline that resonates with reality while captivating audiences. Lyme disease often goes unnoticed, especially when initial symptoms mimic those of a common viral infection. Raising awareness about the disease and emphasising preventive measures is crucial.’

The narrative sheds light on the symptoms of Lyme Disease, including the recognizable Erythema Migrans rash, which manifests as a circular expanding rash appearing post an infected tick bite, typically within three days to three months. However, it’s important to note that about 30% of affected individuals do not develop this rash.

Additionally, symptoms encompass fatigue, muscle and joint pain, headaches, fever, chills, neck stiffness, nausea, and digestive issues. In some cases, especially in children, facial palsy—characterised by one side of the face drooping—can also manifest.

Through this storyline, Coronation Street aims to educate its audience about Lyme Disease, emphasising the importance of prompt medical attention and preventive measures to combat this often overlooked illness.