Tick Alert in the U.S.: 476,000 People Diagnosed Annually!

In the United States, Lyme disease transmitted by tick bites is becoming an increasingly growing public health problem. Approximately 476,000 people in the country are diagnosed with Lyme disease each year, while scientists are working on new vaccine and drug options to counter the rising cases.

Tick Season Is Lengthening

Lyme disease is known as a bacterial infection transmitted by infected ticks. In its early stage, the disease can present with symptoms such as a circular rash, fever, chills, fatigue, and body aches.

In untreated cases, prolonged fatigue, body aches, and neurological problems can appear in the following months or years.

Experts point out that, along with milder winters due to climate change, the increase in forest and deer populations is also expanding tick habitats. It is noted that in some areas, the tick season, which runs from spring to fall, is lengthening.

Promising Results in the New Lyme Vaccine

There is currently no licensed Lyme disease vaccine for people. However, the rising risk has accelerated new research in the scientific community.

One of the most advanced studies is a vaccine candidate developed by Pfizer and Valneva. In a Phase 3 trial involving more than 9,400 participants, a four‑dose regimen was reported to be over 70 % effective at preventing Lyme disease.

No major safety concerns were identified in the study, and it was noted that Pfizer plans to submit to U.S. regulatory authorities for possible approval.

Moderna is also testing two different vaccine candidates against Lyme disease in Phase 2. Researchers at Yale University are working on a different vaccine approach that aims to trigger the immune system’s response to tick saliva.

Alternative drugs to the vaccine are also being developed.

Research is not limited to vaccines. Scientists are also working on an injection called TNX‑4800 that aims to provide about four months of protection by administering ready‑made antibodies to the patient. The product has completed Phase 1 clinical trials.

Another noteworthy study is the pill called TP-05. The drug is intended to intervene in the nervous system of the tick that bites humans, killing it rapidly and thereby preventing the transmission of disease‑causing microorganisms. Phase 2 clinical trials for TP-05 are ongoing.

For now, the most effective method is protection.

The timing for the release of new vaccines and drugs has not yet been finalized. Experts therefore remind that one should stay away from tall grasses, wear protective clothing in nature, and check the body for ticks upon returning home.

If the studies conducted in the United States against Lyme disease, which affects hundreds of thousands of people each year, prove successful, a new era in fighting tick‑borne illnesses could begin.