

Lyme disease rates across Pennsylvania have increased dramatically over the last several years according to data released from the state Department of Health.



According to the 2016 Lyme disease data, more than 2,000 more cases of Lyme disease were reported in 2016 than in 2015. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) most recent data indicates that Pennsylvania leads the nation in Lyme disease cases.



Cases of the disease were reported in every county in Pennsylvania, although were more prevalent in some areas as opposed to others:





A map of average annual Lyme diseases cases for every county in Pennsylvania, using case numbers between 2012 and 2016. Numbers represented are cases per 100,000 residents, not actual case numbers.

The state reminds residents that the first line of defense against Lyme disease and any other tick-borne illnesses is avoidance of tick-infested habitats, such as areas dense with shrubbery or tall grass. Proper use of personal protective measures such as repellents and protective clothing, and checking for and removing attached ticks is also an important deterrent to tick-related complications.