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National Lyme Disease Awareness Month

Let's spread awareness and support those affected by Lyme disease this month. Together, we can make a difference!

Saturday

1–31

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of May

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

May 1 marks the start of National Lyme Disease Awareness Month, a time to educate and raise awareness about this tick-borne illness. While Lyme disease has been recognized since the 1970s, it wasn't until 1982 that the first case was confirmed in the United States. Since then, it has become one of the most commonly reported vector-borne diseases in the country. This month serves as an opportunity to spread important information about prevention, symptoms, and treatment of Lyme disease while also supporting those who have been affected by it. So let's come together and make May a month dedicated to promoting health and wellness!

TIMELINE

National Lyme Disease Awareness Month Timeline

Discovery of Lyme Disease

A cluster of juvenile arthritis cases led to the identification of Lyme disease in Lyme, Connecticut.

Lyme Disease Bacterium Found

The bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted by ticks, was identified as the cause of Lyme disease by microbiologist Willy Burgdorfer.

CDC Surveillance Began

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began to officially track and record incidents of Lyme disease.

Lyme Disease Vaccine Introduced

LYMErix, the only Lyme disease vaccine, was approved for human use but later taken off the market in 2002 due to low demand and lawsuits over side effect claims.

First Lyme Disease Awareness Month

The inaugural National Lyme Disease Awareness Month was held in May to encourage preventive measures and raise public awareness about the disease.

New Lyme Disease Cases Announced

The CDC estimated that nearly 300,000 people are diagnosed with Lyme disease each year in the U.S., ten times more than previously reported.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Lyme Disease Awareness Month

Educate yourself and others about Lyme Disease

Take the time to research and learn about Lyme Disease and its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Share this information with others to raise awareness about the disease.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraising event

Host a charity event such as a walk, run, or bake sale to raise funds for Lyme Disease research and support organizations. This is a great way to spread awareness while also making a positive impact.

WEAR

Wear lime green clothing

Lime green is the official color of Lyme Disease awareness, so show your support by wearing this color throughout the month. You can even organize a "Lyme Green Day" at your workplace or school to get more people involved.

Share your story

If you or a loved one have been affected by Lyme Disease, share your story on social media or in your community. This can help others understand the impact of the disease and motivate them to take action.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a Lyme Disease organization

Contact local organizations that support Lyme Disease research and offer to volunteer your time and skills. This is a great way to make a difference and meet others who are passionate about raising awareness for this important cause.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Lyme Disease Awareness Month is Important

Show support for those living with lyme disease

Finally, celebrating National Lyme Disease Awareness Month is a way to show compassion and solidarity for those living with the disease. By participating in events or simply sharing information on social media, we can let them know that they are not alone and that their struggles are not forgotten.

Raise awareness and educate others

One of the main reasons why National Lyme Disease Awareness Month is important is to spread knowledge and understanding about the disease. Many people still don't know much about it, and by bringing attention to it, we can also share information on prevention, symptoms, and treatment options.

Advocate for better resources and support

By acknowledging Lyme Disease Awareness Month, we can also advocate for improved resources and support for those who are affected by the disease. This includes funding for research, access to treatment, and better insurance coverage for those living with chronic lyme.

Related holidays

Prevent Lyme Disease in Dogs Month

It's Prevent Lyme Disease in Dogs Month - don't forget to protect your furry best friend with preventative measures and regular check-ups at the vet!

UK Tick Bite Prevention Week

A week-long awareness observance in late March promoting tick-bite prevention to reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases including Lyme disease.

Lupus Awareness Month

Join us in raising awareness for Lupus during Lupus Awareness Month - help spread the word and support those affected by this difficult disease.

International Awareness Day for Chronic Immunological and Neurological Diseases

Let's raise awareness and support for those living with chronic immunological and neurological diseases on International Awareness Day

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