DE SCR160

Designates May 2024 as "Lyme Disease Awareness Month" in Delaware to raise awareness about the bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi.

Notes that Delaware ranks in the top 10 states for highest Lyme disease incidence rate per 100,000 people, with climate conditions ideal for disease-carrying deer ticks.

Acknowledges that Lyme disease can cause severe long-term effects including neurological impacts, joint disease, and post-treatment symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and cognitive impairment lasting months or years.

Recognizes that infected individuals may have the disease without displaying the characteristic red bull's-eye rash and that Delaware investigates each reported case through the Bureau of Epidemiology.

Affirms the legislature's commitment to Lyme disease awareness and prevention in response to the growing number of affected Delawareans.