Key Takeaways

Lyme disease affects about 500,000 Americans each year, data shows

Symptoms range from rash and fatigue to serious nerve and heart issues

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term complications

MONDAY, Sept. 22, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne illness in the United States, a potentially disabling infection caused by bacteria transmitted through the bite of an infected tick to people and pets.

Another possible route of transmission, which is less well known and understudied, is from an infected pregnant mother to her unborn baby.

Each year, the U.S. sees about 500,000 new cases of Lyme disease, according to statistics released in 2018 by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

While awareness has grown, L

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