Lyme disease distribution in Appalachia, 2010 - 2017

Abstract

We looked at the distribution of Lyme disease cases in Appalachia in order to find any hotspots for the disease, and track how the disease has spread and grown geographically over time. We collected Lyme disease distribution data between the years of 2010 and 2017, and monitored and recorded the changes in the disease distribution by state over that period of time. Using GIS technology to create maps and compile information pertaining to the distribution of Lyme disease in Appalachian states, we created visual representations of the growth in reported cases of Lyme disease and the change in distribution of the disease over time. Collecting distribution data is very important to the environmental field as well as the medical field. From a medical perspective, keeping a log of the reported cases of an infectious zoonotic disease such as Lyme disease can help medical professionals keep an eye on where the disease is most prevalent and where the most treatment is potentially needed.