Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks, mainly Ixodes ricinus. The number of cases in Europe has been steadily increasing, with more than 360,000 cases reported in the last two decades. The highest incidence rates are found in Central Europe, particularly in the Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithuania and Slovenia.
Changes in the geographical and temporal distribution of ticks and the disease have been observed in recent decades. Ticks are appearing at higher altitudes and more northern latitudes, and the incidence of disease is spreading from early spring to autumn. There are a number of factors behind this phenomenon, including climate change, changes in land cover and land use, changes in the distribution of tick hosts, and human-induced environmental changes.
Ticks become infected when they feed on small mammals (such as rodents) and certain bird species that carry the bacteria in their blood. In high-risk areas, up to 40% of ticks may be infected. The risk of infection spread by ticks is influenced by the number of ticks in a given area, the proportion of infected ticks, and human behaviour. People who spend time outdoors for leisure or work in high-risk areas are at increased risk. There is currently no approved vaccine against Lyme borreliosis. The most effective ways to avoid tick bites include wearing light-coloured long trousers and long-sleeved shirts, and using repellents on the skin and clothing. The skin should be checked regularly for attached ticks, which should be removed as soon as possible.
source: https://climate-adapt.eea.europa.eu/en/metadata/publications/lyme-borreliosis-in-europe
(C) Lyme Borreliosis Foundation
