Work

Risk Factors for Lyme Disease in the General Population—A Survey of Adults and Caregivers in 28 States

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background: , typically from outdoor activities in high-incidence areas. The population prevalence of the activities that confer risk is unknown. Methods: We conducted online surveys of adults (ages 18+) and caregivers of children aged 1-17 in jurisdictions with a high incidence of LD, the states neighboring them, and selected counties in California and Oregon (CA/OR). The survey included questions on outdoor activities and occupation in forests, wooded areas, and areas with tall grass, residential characteristics, time spent in a yard, use of personal protection measures, history of LD and tick bites, and LD knowledge and risk perception. Data were weighted separately for each state-level sample and analyzed by region (ie, high incidence, neighboring, and CA/OR) and population (ie, adults and caregivers). Results: A total of 44 330 adults and 28 380 caregivers completed the survey. Most respondents were aware of LD (range, 88-93%), spent time in a yard (adults, 88-92%; children, 96%-98%), or spent recreational time outside (adults, 70-79%; children, 83-84%). Always using prevention measures while doing outdoor recreational activities was reported for 34-40% of adults and 40-42% of children. Conclusions: Despite the high population prevalence of LD awareness and of doing outdoor activities, less than half of surveyed respondents routinely used personal prevention measures to mitigate their risk of tick-borne diseases. More effective strategies and education are needed to prevent LD.

Source: Open Forum Infectious Diseases

DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaf658