Educational Content: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

What Is Lyme Disease in Humans?

Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
  • Facts
  • Causes
    • What causes Lyme disease in humans?
  • Risks and Complications
    • What are risk factors for developing Lyme disease?
    • What are complications of Lyme disease?
  • Symptoms and Signs
    • What are Lyme disease symptoms and signs?
  • Doctors Specialists
    • What types of doctors treat Lyme disease?
  • Diagnosis
    • What tests do health care professionals use to diagnose Lyme disease?
  • Curable
    • Is Lyme disease curable? What is the prognosis of Lyme disease?
  • Prevention & Vaccine
    • Is it possible to prevent Lyme disease? Is there a Lyme disease vaccine?
Photo of a blacklegged tick, which is a known vector responsible for Lyme disease.
A bacterium called a "spirochete" causes Lyme disease, a tick-borne disease.Source: CDC - James Gathany

Lyme disease in humans facts

  • Lyme disease is an illness that is spread by bites from ticks infected by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, Borrelia mayonii, Borrelia afzelii, or Borrelia garinii.
  • Lyme disease can affect the skin, joints, heart, and nervous system.