The Michigan House today adopted a resolution from State Representative Bill G. Schuette declaring May as Lyme disease Awareness Month in the state of Michigan.

“Awareness of this disease and its origins can help with prevention,” said Schuette, of Midland. “As we enter a new spring season, this measure highlights the many people in Michigan and millions across the country who encounter Lyme disease complications every year. It also encourages people to wear long sleeves and pants in areas with high concentration of ticks, clear tall grass and bushes in yards and examine your pets for ticks after they’ve been outside.”

Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness with symptoms very similar to the common flu, but if not treated right away it can have significant long-term effects. Many people don’t realize they have Lyme disease until it has already caused lasting harm. The long-term effects of what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) calls Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome include permanent fatigue, body aches, and difficulty thinking.

Lyme disease cases nearly quadrupled in Michigan from 2022-25 according to data from the state’s Department of Health and Human Services and there are almost half a million new cases in the United States every year. An updated risk map for 2026 is available through DHHS here.

While addressing the resolution on the House floor, Schuette thanked constituent Jill Sklenar for bringing this issue to his attention.