HEALTHCARE provider support for Lyme disease vaccination has declined since 2018, raising concerns about rollout readiness as the first vaccine nears approval. A new study evaluating more than 3,000 healthcare providers across the United States found that just 68% were willing to recommend Lyme disease vaccination in 2022, down from 73% in 2018.
The findings, drawn from two national cross-sectional surveys, highlight regional and perceptual differences that could influence vaccine uptake. Providers practicing in high-incidence Lyme disease states were significantly more willing to recommend vaccination than their counterparts in neighboring or low-incidence regions. This suggests geographic experience with Lyme disease may shape provider attitudes more than specialty or clinical background, as willingness did not vary significantly across medical disciplines.
Vaccine safety emerged as the dominant concern, cited by 73% of participants as a primary consideration in their decision-making. The emphasis on safety underscores the need for focused educational efforts to address provider hesitations.
The authors emphasize that engaging providers through targeted communication strategies will be essential for a successful Lyme vaccination campaign, particularly given the drop in overall enthusiasm.
These insights come as public health agencies prepare for the anticipated availability of a Lyme disease vaccine. With incidence rates rising across the Northeast, Upper Midwest, and other parts of the country, provider endorsement may play a key role in public trust and coverage levels.
According to the study, strengthening provider confidence in vaccine safety and efficacy will be crucial to support widespread adoption once the vaccine is launched. Without renewed educational outreach, uptake may falter even in high-risk areas.
Reference:
Bostic TD et al. Lyme disease vaccine acceptability among healthcare providers ― United States, 2018 and 2022. Vaccine. 2025;62:127495.
