Lyme Disease

Moderate↑ rising

Vector-borne

Current NYS Status

21,632 cases in 2024 — 2.1× the 5-year baseline of ~10,380. Significantly elevated.

2024 statewide cases: 21,632

Source: NYSDOH Annual Communicable Disease Report 2024 + 5-yr baseline

What is it?

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted by the bite of blacklegged (deer) ticks. It is the most common vector-borne disease in New York State, with over 21,000 cases reported in 2024.

How it spreads

Spread through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks. Ticks must typically be attached for 36–48 hours before transmission occurs. Peak transmission season is May through August when nymphal ticks are most active.

Symptoms

Early: expanding circular rash (erythema migrans), fever, fatigue, headache, muscle and joint aches. Later stages (if untreated): joint pain and swelling, neurological symptoms, and rarely heart rhythm problems.

Who is at risk?

Anyone who spends time outdoors in wooded, brushy, or grassy areas in tick-endemic regions. Hudson Valley, Long Island, and Capital Region have the highest case rates in NYS.

What you can do

🛡Do a full-body tick check after every outdoor activity in tick habitats

🛡Use EPA-registered repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 on skin and clothing

🛡Remove attached ticks promptly with fine-tipped tweezers — grasp close to the skin

⚕️See a provider if you develop a rash or flu-like illness after a tick bite

Tier B — Annual report tracking

Based on NYSDOH annual communicable disease report. Threat level reflects 2024 case counts compared to the 5-year baseline.

Seasonality: tick season

This information is for general public health awareness and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.