# Increased Borrelia burgdorferi Seroprevalence in Nova Scotia—Prevalence and Distribution 10 Years Later

## TL;DR

This study shows that the number of people in Nova Scotia infected with Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria causing Lyme disease, has increased over the past decade, especially in the western part of the province.

## Contribution

The study provides updated data on Borrelia burgdorferi seroprevalence in Nova Scotia and identifies a significant increase and geographic shift in infection rates.

## Key findings

- Seroprevalence of Borrelia burgdorferi increased from 0.14% to 1.60% over ten years in Nova Scotia.
- The highest seroprevalence rates were observed in the western area of the province.
- Seropositivity was detected across all age groups and regions of Nova Scotia.

## Abstract

Lyme disease (LD), a tick‐borne infection, is endemic in Nova Scotia. One decade ago, the seropositivity rate to
Borrelia burgdorferi
was 2/1855 (0.14%). In the current study, using residual sera representing ages 10–64 years, we demonstrate an increase in seroprevalence, to 25/1872 (1.60%), with the highest seroprevalence in the western area of the province.

Seroprevalence of
Borrelia burgdorferi
in Nova Scotia has increased as compared to 10 years agoSeropositivity is detected throughout the provinceHighest rates of seropositivity are in the province's Western Zone

Seroprevalence of
Borrelia burgdorferi
in Nova Scotia has increased as compared to 10 years ago

Seropositivity is detected throughout the province

Highest rates of seropositivity are in the province's Western Zone