How prevalent is Lyme disease?

The prevalence of Lyme disease is difficult to state precisely due to several factors: underreporting, variations in testing and diagnostic criteria, and differing levels of awareness and surveillance across geographical regions.

However, we can say that Lyme disease is a significant public health problem in many parts of the world, particularly in North America and Europe. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States estimates tens of thousands of cases are reported annually, but the actual number is likely much higher. This underreporting is partly because many cases are mild and go undiagnosed, and the symptoms can mimic other illnesses. Similar issues with underreporting exist in other countries.

Therefore, while precise prevalence figures are elusive, it's safe to conclude that Lyme disease is a relatively common and often underdiagnosed illness in specific geographic areas with high tick populations. Its prevalence varies considerably depending on location, season, and animal host populations.