Surveys and interviews have been conducted with nearly 1000 patients with a tick-borne disease since 2021.  Detailed results are being prepared for publication so not all results are available. However, because of Ticks in Virginia's commitment to research translation and promotion of best practices, key results and the most important lessons learned from patients in these studies are highlighted. All studies were approved by the University of Lynchburg's Institutional Review Board. 

In 2021, over 400 patients with a tick-borne disease participated in surveys about their experiences with healthcare providers related to the diagnosis, management, and treatment of their tick-borne disease.  Nearly 50 of these participants participated in 30-minute follow-up interviews.  Fifteen recommendations were developed through a thematic analysis of participants' responses.  Recommendations are described on the Resources for Healthcare Providers page.

Employees with a tick-borne disease experience symptoms that impact their ability to go to work (absenteeism), be fully present while at work (presenteeism), and/or be able to perform their job responsibilities at their highest potential (productivity).  From studies with over 400 participants, the most common symptoms for all TBDs combined were fatigue & tiredness, upset stomach & nausea, joint pain & swelling, disturbed sleep, and headaches.  

In some cases, employees were fired, forced to reduce hours or quit, or had to change professions because of the severity of their symptoms (all TBDs) or because of allergic reactions resulting from workplace exposures (Alpha-gal Syndrome).  

Employers, particularly those with employees working in high-risk occupations and workplaces located in tick-endemic regions, need to recognize the risk of tick bites for their employees (both on and off the job) and consider implementing programs, practices, and policies to support employees who have a tick-borne disease.  Learn more on the Resources for Employers page.