The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported a significant increase in Lyme disease cases across the United States in 2024, with a 20% rise compared to the previous year. Health officials documented approximately 48,000 confirmed cases, though the actual number may be higher due to underreporting. The Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Upper Midwest remain the most affected regions, with ticks thriving in wooded and grassy areas.
Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is transmitted through bites from infected black-legged ticks. Symptoms typically include fever, fatigue, headache, and a distinctive bull’s-eye rash, though not all patients develop the rash. If untreated, the infection can lead to severe complications, including joint pain, heart issues, and neurological problems. Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are critical for recovery, experts emphasize.
The CDC attributes the surge to warmer temperatures and longer tick seasons driven by climate change, alongside growing deer populations that host ticks. “We’re seeing ticks in areas where they weren’t common before,” said Dr. Sarah Thompson, a CDC epidemiologist. “People need to take precautions, especially during outdoor activities.”
Health officials recommend using EPA-approved insect repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and performing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors. Showering within two hours of returning indoors can also reduce risk. For pet owners, regular tick prevention treatments for dogs are advised, as pets can carry ticks into homes.
The CDC urges doctors to consider Lyme disease in patients with compatible symptoms, even in areas where the disease is less prevalent. Public awareness campaigns are underway to educate communities about prevention and early detection. As cases continue to climb, officials stress the importance of vigilance in tick-prone environments to curb the spread of this growing public health concern.
