Lyme Disease
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear, evidence-based answers to the questions we hear most often — from patients newly diagnosed to families trying to understand their risk.
These answers reflect current medical consensus and are reviewed regularly. For personalized guidance, consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Generally, no. Transmission requires the tick to be attached and actively feeding for at least 36–48 hours in most cases. A tick crawling on skin but not attached presents very low risk. However, if you found a crawling tick, monitor closely for symptoms as you may not know how long it had been nearby.
No. There is no credible scientific evidence that Lyme disease is transmitted person-to-person through casual contact, sexual activity, or breastfeeding. You cannot give Lyme disease to family members or partners through normal interaction.
Early symptoms may resolve on their own, but the bacteria can continue spreading through the body — including to joints, the nervous system, and the heart — even in the absence of obvious symptoms. Treatment is strongly recommended to prevent progression to more serious stages.
The classic erythema migrans rash is a round or oval red rash that expands over days, sometimes with central clearing that creates a target or bull's-eye appearance. However, many rashes are uniformly red without the target pattern. The rash is typically flat and warm to the touch, rarely itches or hurts, and can grow quite large — several inches across.
Yes. Having Lyme disease once does not confer lasting immunity. You can be reinfected by a subsequent bite from a different infected tick. Prevention remains important even after a previous diagnosis and successful treatment.
A human vaccine (LYMErix) was available from 1998–2002 but was withdrawn. As of 2024–2026, several candidate vaccines are in late-stage clinical trials. A vaccine for dogs has been available for years. See our Prevention & Vaccines page for current updates.
The highest burden is in the Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states (CT, DE, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT, VA) and the upper Midwest (MN and WI). Cases have been reported in all 50 states, and the geographic range of infected ticks is expanding northward and westward due to climate and environmental changes.
Most people diagnosed and treated in early stages recover fully within a few weeks of completing antibiotics. Some experience lingering fatigue or joint pain for weeks to months. Approximately 10–20% develop Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) with more prolonged symptoms. Recovery timelines vary significantly by individual and stage at diagnosis.
Still have questions? Browse our Glossary, explore the full Lyme Disease hub, or contact us.