The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported a significant rise in Lyme disease cases in the United States, with a 69% increase in 2022. However, this surge is attributed more to changes in surveillance methods rather than an actual increase in cases. As per the new approach, only a positive blood test result is required for reporting cases in high-incidence states, thereby reducing the reporting burden. This method has uncovered 62,551 cases in 2022 alone, 1.7 times the annual average observed between 2017 and 2019.

The shift in surveillance methods aims to provide a more accurate picture of the disease’s burden, given the limitations of existing diagnostic tests that may not detect the disease in the early stages. The change in surveillance is a clear recognition of the need to adapt to the high burden of Lyme disease and provide a sustainable way to track trends across states.

Previously, public health departments were required to check with every physician who ordered a test to see if the clinical picture supported a diagnosis. This became unworkable for states with hundreds or thousands of cases. The new method allows 15 states to report cases with only a positive blood test result, thereby simplifying the process.

Lyme disease is most prevalent in the Northeast, Midwest, and mid-Atlantic states. The disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted through the bites of blacklegged ticks. The infection is treated with antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can cause long-term problems.

Insurance billing data suggests approximately 476,000 people are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease annually. However, due to the limitations of early detection, the true number of cases is likely higher. For instance, a case of Lyme disease diagnosed in a woman living in North Carolina highlighted the need for greater awareness and professional education about the disease, given the prolonged diagnostic course for the patient and the challenges in diagnosing Lyme disease in areas where clinicians have limited experience.

The rise in Lyme disease cases may also be attributed to better, more sensitive testing. The increase in reported cases is a reflection of improved surveillance and possibly more sensitive testing, but it’s too early to make definitive conclusions. Some states, like Minnesota and Massachusetts, reported significant increases in Lyme disease cases in 2022 due to the new surveillance approach.

Despite the changes in surveillance and reporting methods, the fight against Lyme disease continues as public health officials and researchers work towards better understanding and managing the impact of this prevalent disease.