How to Recognize Lyme Disease

Since Lyme disease was initially confirmed in Connecticut decades ago, it has become one of the most widespread vector-borne illnesses in the world, including the United States.

Over the years, this long-lasting disease has impacted countless outdoor-loving adventurers from the northeast, and it is now also found in the Midwest, in states such as Michigan.

To help identify at-risk areas, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) published the Tick Bite Data Tracker. As of July 25, 2025, this digital app displays case data from emergency room visits.

While cases have peaked in May each year, Lyme disease cases continue to be reported until winter.

To enhance the diagnosing of Lyme disease infection, a recent episode of the Mayo Clinic's Tomorrow's Cure explores how researchers are advancing diagnostic tools to detect Lyme disease.

The episode features two leading experts, at Massachusetts General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School. They discuss the latest advancements and the ongoing efforts to control Lyme disease better.

From a prevention perspective, the CDC advises avoiding tick bites while Lyme disease vaccine candidates complete clinic trials.