Lyme disease is an illness caused by borrelia bacteria, usually transmitted by tick bite, that was first recognised as a specific condition in 1975 in Lyme, Connecticut. This annual month-long event began in the 1980s, initiated by healthcare organisations, advocacy groups and individuals impacted by Lyme disease. It coincides with the beginning of tick season in the northern hemisphere and aims to inform the public about Lyme disease, its symptoms, prevention and treatment options, and to emphasise the importance of early detection and treatment.