Grammy award-winning singer, Justin Timberlake, has revealed that he’s been dealing with health issues, including a Lyme disease diagnosis.
“If you’ve experienced this disease or know someone who has — then you’re aware: living with this can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically,” Timberlake wrote on Instagram on Thursday.
“When I first got the diagnosis, I was shocked for sure,” he continued. “But, at least I could understand why I would be onstage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or, just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness.”
The singer said the diagnosis made him think about ending his tour but added: “I decided the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going.”
During his tour, Timberlake postponed several shows because of health issues.
Other artists, including Justin Bieber and Avril Lavigne, have also shared their experiences with Lyme disease.
What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is caused by bacteria spread through bites from infected black-legged ticks.
It’s named after Lyme, Connecticut, where it was first identified in the U.S. in 1975.
Each year, about 476,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Ticks that carry the bacteria are most common in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and upper Midwest.
People who work or spend time in grassy areas, or have pets like dogs that can bring ticks home, are at higher risk. The illness is also found in Europe and parts of Canada.
Signs and Symptoms of Lyme disease
A rash, often shaped like a bull’s-eye, is one of the first signs for many people.
It may itch or feel warm.
Other symptoms include fever, headaches, fatigue, and joint stiffness.
If untreated, Lyme disease can lead to more serious issues like joint infections, nerve problems, and heart inflammation.
Some people develop post-Lyme disease syndrome, which causes lingering nerve pain, fatigue, and memory issues. Because Lyme disease can look like other conditions, anyone with symptoms should see a doctor.
Is there a cure for Lyme disease?
Most people recover after a few weeks of antibiotics.
There is no vaccine currently available — the only one approved in the U.S. was pulled from the market in 2002 due to low demand.
Pfizer and French drugmaker Valneva are testing a new vaccine to protect against Lyme disease strains in North America and Europe.
Pfizer said participants have already received three doses and will be monitored through the 2025 Lyme season.
The University of Massachusetts Medical School’s MassBiologics is also developing a seasonal preventive shot.
To lower the risk of infection from Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses, experts recommend avoiding tick bites by using repellent, staying in the center of trails, and steering clear of bushy areas.
