Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is an infectious illness caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged or deer tick. The disease is most prevalent in wooded areas, especially in the Northeast and Upper Midwest regions of the United States, and often affects people with exposure to these environments or domestic animals. Since many infected individuals do not recall a tick bite, awareness of its transmission and regional prevalence is important for prevention. The incidence of Lyme disease has been steadily rising over the past two decades.