Quest Diagnostics Lyme Disease Blood Test: CDC-Approved Two-Step Process, Ideal for Tick Bites or Symptoms

Lyme disease, a bacterial infection, is transmitted via the bite of blacklegged ticks, often called deer ticks. Ticks usually contract Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria by feeding on infected animals like deer and rodents. Transmission requires an infected tick to remain attached for 36 to 48 hours. The blacklegged tick is prevalent in the Northeast, mid-Atlantic, and North Central U.S., while the western blacklegged tick is found on the Pacific Coast. Several tick species, such as lone star ticks, do not transmit Lyme disease. Humans are typically infected by immature ticks, known as nymphs, which are small and hard to spot. Nymphs are most active in spring and summer, while adult ticks can also transmit the bacteria but are more likely to be discovered and removed before transmission. Lyme disease is a year-round issue, with peak activity from April to November. Although not widespread nationwide, it can be diagnosed anywhere, often due to travel between states. In the U.S., most cases occur in specific geographical areas, including Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington D.C., West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

• Specimen Type: Blood
• Test Method: In-Person
• No Special Preparation Needed
• Lyme Disease Blood Test: Utilizes CDC-Recommended Two-Step Process
• Recommended for: Tick Bites or Relevant Symptoms