Alexis Ohanian has shared a surprising health update. This shocking revelation came during a routine checkup, with no prior symptoms. Ohanian’s candidness shines a light on the silent struggle of many.

Serena Williams’ husband, Alexis Ohanian, recently shared a personal health update, revealing that he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease. This condition, which is transmitted to humans through tick bites, was detected through a series of medical procedures.

The 41-year-old detailed his diagnosis on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, July 16. In a series of posts, the Reddit co-founder explained that bloodwork had confirmed the presence of Lyme disease, even though he had not exhibited any symptoms.

“Doing a full battery of health scans, tests, etc., and found out I have Lyme disease,” Ohanian wrote. He also mentioned that it was wild to be diagnosed without any symptoms but reassured that he would undergo treatment.

Ohanian—married to Serena Williams since 2017 and shares two children with the tennis star—also discussed a loved one who had been diagnosed with Lyme disease a few years ago. He noted the person had shown many symptoms and struggled to identify the cause until they were tested and successfully treated for Lyme disease.

The diagnosis came as “a surprise” for Ohanian. He noted he doesn’t spend much time in areas where ticks are common, such as the Northeast or wilderness regions. Nevertheless, he remained positive, stating he would “grab some antibiotics” to combat the ailment, and added humorously, “Can’t keep me down, tick!”

He concluded his posts with a disclaimer, encouraging people to consult a doctor for health advice rather than relying on his personal experience.

Ohanian joins a list of celebrities including, Justin Bieber, Ben Stiller, Yolanda, and Bella Hadid who have been diagnosed with Lyme disease. This has raised questions as to why this condition seems so prevalent among the rich and famous.

Lyme disease, caused by borrelia bacteria, is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. These ticks are found throughout most of the United States, in the upper Midwest, northeastern, and mid-Atlantic states.

These ticks are also common in Europe and parts of Canada. Spending time in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas increases the risk of encountering these ticks. Still, taking precautions can help mitigate this risk.

Professor Paul Hunter, an infectious disease expert suggests that celebrities might be more susceptible to Lyme disease due to their lifestyles. He noted that the increased leisure time and greater access to outdoor areas where ticks reside could make it more likely for them to be exposed.

Hunter further explained that celebrities often spend more time in wooded parklands. He also stated that these high-profile people have the means to visit these areas frequently, increasing their chances of encountering ticks.

Additionally, the professor noted that many celebrities reside in the U.S., where Lyme disease is more prevalent. He then pointed out that ticks can latch onto a person’s legs while walking and crawl up to have a blood feast, thereby transmitting the disease.

Ohanian’s diagnosis of Lyme disease sheds light on a condition that has affected many celebrities. Despite the absence of symptoms, Ohanian’s proactive approach to treatment highlights the importance of regular health check-ups.

With Lyme disease being prevalent in areas frequented by the wealthy, understanding and prevention becomes crucial. Professor Hunter’s advice is to check for ticks after outdoor activities. He also cautions against unreliable private clinic tests not recognized by health authorities, citing high risks.

As Professor Hunter warns about the complexities of Lyme disease, it’s clear that awareness and preventive measures are key to managing this widespread health concern.