From January to July 2025, the Czech Republic reported as many cases of Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) as not seen in a decade. Over 3,000 people contracted Lyme disease, 372 contracted TBE – and experts warn of rising risks.
From January until the end of July this year, Czech authorities have registered as many cases of tick-borne diseases as not seen in ten years. According to the State Health Institute (SZÚ), more than 3,000 people were infected with Lyme disease and 372 with TBE. For comparison: in the entire year of 2024, approximately 4,000 Lyme disease and 670 TBE cases were diagnosed. Across Europe, according to a report by the news channel ČT24, the Czech Republic is among the countries with the highest annual incidence – only the Baltic states report higher numbers.
Both diseases often begin with non-specific symptoms such as fever, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain. Lyme disease frequently initially causes a characteristic red skin change – the so-called erythema migrans – at the site of the bite.
The risk of infection rises the longer the tick remains attached. Experts therefore recommend consistent protection: use repellents, wear long clothing, thoroughly check the body after being outdoors, and remove ticks as early and correctly as possible. The SZÚ also advises staying on paths and avoiding tall grass or dense undergrowth.
Serious late complications possible
Both illnesses can have severe consequences. TBE can lead to memory and concentration difficulties, chronic fatigue, or even paralysis – in rare cases it can be fatal, especially among older or medically vulnerable people. Lyme disease can cause permanent damage to joints, especially the knees, or trigger inflammation of the meninges and paralysis of the facial nerve.
Experts see a connection between the increasing number of infections and climate change: rising temperatures enable ticks to survive even at higher altitudes and maintain their activity over a greater part of the year.
It is possible to get vaccinated against TBE. However, the vaccination rate in the Czech Republic is low compared to other European countries and stands at about 37 per cent according to SZÚ. By comparison: in Austria the vaccination rate is over 80 per cent, and the number of infections there is many times lower.
While research on a Lyme disease vaccine is still ongoing, a vaccine against TBE is already available. It must be boosted every three to five years. The cost is approximately 1,000 CZK per dose, with younger people usually receiving a subsidy from their insurers.
Map of Tick Activity in the Czech Republic (Map | Klíště.cz)
