Tick-Borne Diseases on the Rise in the Czech Republic

The number of cases of tick-borne diseases has seen a significant increase in the Czech Republic, with 1,313 cases of Lyme disease detected in the first half of the year, a six percent increase from the previous year, according to data from the National Institute of Public Health. The number of tick-borne encephalitis cases has also remained high, with only one fewer patient than last year, making it a concerning trend. Experts attribute the rise in cases to climate warming, which allows ticks to live at higher altitudes and survive for a greater part of the year. Both illnesses can result in meningitis and require prompt treatment, with Lyme disease caused by a bacterium and treated with antibiotics, while tick-borne encephalitis is caused by a virus.

Key Takeaways:

• The number of Lyme disease cases has increased by six percent year-on-year, with 1,313 cases detected in the first half of the year, the most in 11 years.
• The number of tick-borne encephalitis cases remained high, with only one fewer patient than last year, making it a concerning trend.
• The Czech Republic is one of the countries in Europe where the highest number of people are infected with tick-borne encephalitis each year, only surpassed by the Baltic States.
• Experts attribute the rise in cases to climate warming, which allows ticks to live at higher altitudes and survive for a greater part of the year.
• People can protect themselves against tick-borne encephalitis by getting vaccinated, with public health insurance covering it for people over 50.
• Vaccination against Lyme disease could be available in the next few years, with data from the third phase of testing expected at the end of the year.
• The majority of tick-borne diseases cases occur in the second half of the year, with June data showing over 100 cases of encephalitis.
• Most affected regions include Moravia-Silesia, South Bohemia, and Zlin, with experts noting that the reason for higher hospitalization rates is unclear.

Statistics:

• 1,313 cases of Lyme disease detected in the first half of the year, a six percent increase from the previous year.
• 670 cases of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) diagnosed in 2022.
• 4,000+ cases of Lyme disease diagnosed in 2023.
• 1,313 cases of Lyme disease detected in the first six months of the year (2025).
• 167 cases of tick-borne encephalitis (2025).
• Public health insurance covers vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis for people over 50.

Sources:

• CTK, July 7 (2023)
• SZU (National Institute of Public Health)
• Manufacturer's website (February 2023)