During which season are Lyme disease cases most commonly reported?

Lyme disease cases are most commonly reported during the summer season due to the increased activity of ticks, specifically the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis), which is the primary vector for the disease. This tick is most prevalent in warm, humid conditions, and its nymph stage, which is most likely to transmit the Lyme disease bacterium, typically peaks in late spring and early summer. As people engage in outdoor activities during this time, such as hiking or camping, exposure to tick habitat also increases, leading to a higher incidence of Lyme disease cases.

In addition, the life cycle of the ticks is aligned with the warmer months, favoring their growth and activity. Understanding the seasonal patterns of Lyme disease transmission helps inform preventative measures during the periods when people are more likely to encounter infected ticks.