Lyme Disease Cases Decline UK, US Vaccine Development Advances

Lyme disease remains a significant public health concern, with the U.S. seeing between 300,000 and 500,000 annual cases, primarily in northern and mid-Atlantic states. Pfizer is expected to potentially bring a new vaccine to market by 2027, but vaccine skepticism, particularly influenced by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., poses challenges to vaccine acceptance. In England, confirmed Lyme cases slightly decreased in 2024, though health officials warn these numbers likely underestimate true infections due to diagnostic practices. In the U.S., local health departments, such as those in Eau Claire and San Diego, continue to emphasize prevention measures like tick avoidance and prompt removal, despite some regions having rare cases. The Powassan virus, another tick-borne illness, is also monitored due to its similar symptoms and potential severity, though it remains uncommon. Overall, vigilance and preventive actions remain crucial as tick seasons extend with warmer weather, underscoring the importance of public awareness alongside ongoing vaccine development efforts.