PCR Testing Services

Each May marks National Lyme Disease Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating the public about tick-borne risks and prevention strategies. As awareness efforts continue to grow in 2026, EMSL Analytical, Inc. is emphasizing the importance of early detection through advanced laboratory testing of ticks that may carry the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease.

According to data reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 89,000 Lyme disease cases were officially recorded by state health departments and Washington, D.C. in 2023. However, public health officials estimate the actual number of Americans diagnosed and treated for the disease each year is closer to 476,000, highlighting the widespread nature of the illness.

In North America, Lyme disease is primarily linked to the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. These ticks can attach to any area of the body. In the northeastern, mid-Atlantic, and north-central United States, the disease is most commonly spread by blacklegged ticks, while on the Pacific Coast it is typically transmitted by western blacklegged ticks.

To support public health awareness and risk reduction, EMSL Analytical offers PCR-based DNA testing designed to detect Borrelia burgdorferi in collected ticks. The company also provides convenient sample collection kits that allow individuals and organizations to submit ticks for rapid analysis.

“Lyme disease is often highly treatable with antibiotics when caught early, but delayed diagnosis can allow the infection to affect the joints, heart, and nervous system,” said Jason Dobranic, Ph.D., Vice President of Microbiology and Life Sciences at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Through our sensitive PCR testing and easy-to-use kits, we aim to give people clearer information about potential exposure and help them take appropriate next steps.”

EMSL Analytical has also supported public education initiatives, including an informational video about Lyme Disease Awareness Month that remains available online at: https://youtu.be/Hr3UOTRwaNM

For more information about testing ticks for Borrelia burgdorferi, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675, or email info@EMSL.com. For access to Lyme Disease Tick Test Kits, visit www.EMSLTestKits.com.

 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.