Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is most commonly transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected black-legged tick. It is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and typically results in symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, and skin rashes. If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to more serious complications affecting the joints, heart, and nervous system. Research in the field of Lyme disease focuses on improving methods for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of the disease. This includes developing more accurate diagnostic tests, studying the mechanisms of how the bacteria evade the immune system, and investigating new treatment options such as vaccines. Additionally, researchers are also studying the ecological factors that contribute to the spread of Lyme disease and ways to effectively control tick populations to reduce the risk of transmission to humans.