The epidemiology of Lyme disease in Kentucky, 1985-1990

Lyme Disease has become the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. To assess the extent of the disease in Kentucky, all case reports were reviewed for 1985-1990. A total of 51 cases met the current case definition. Epidemiologic features were similar to those reported nationally. Although the recognized tick vectors for Lyme Disease have still not been identified in Kentucky, physicians should educate their patients on the risk of Lyme Disease and measures to prevent tick bites. Reporting cases of Lyme Disease will continue to be important so that trends in the disease's occurrence in Kentucky can be monitored.