Lyme Disease Rate 10 Times Higher Than Previously Thought

US Pharm.  2013;38(9):11.

Atlanta, GA—According to a preliminary estimate by the CDC, approximately 300,000 Americans are diagnosed with Lyme disease each year—10 times higher than the number of cases reported annually. This estimate is based on findings from ongoing CDC studies analyzing clinical laboratory survey data, self-reported Lyme disease cases, and medical claims information for 22 million people. The CDC, which is further analyzing the data to refine estimates and clarify the overall burden of Lyme disease in the United States, will publish finalized estimates upon completion of the studies. “This new preliminary estimate confirms that Lyme disease is a tremendous public health problem…and clearly highlights the urgent need for prevention,” said Paul Mead, MD, MPH, of the CDC’s Lyme disease program.

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