Tick season ends - increase in Lyme disease cases

In the tick season that is coming to an end, more Lyme disease cases have occurred in Saxony than in the entire previous year. As of September 26, 1,976 cases had been registered, according to the weekly epidemiological reports of the State Investigation Institute (LUA). In 2024, there were a total of 1,619, and 1,484 in the previous year.

In addition, 40 cases of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) have been recorded so far in 2025. In the previous year, 63 cases had been recorded - a sharp increase compared to 2023 with 34 cases.

Ticks as disease vectors

Borreliosis and TBE can be transmitted by ticks. If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to inflammation of the joints, heart muscle and nerves. TBE begins with flu-like symptoms, later on nervous system failures are also possible. There are vaccinations against TBE, while Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics.

The tick season in Germany lasts roughly from March to September, depending on temperatures. According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), ticks are active from a temperature of around six degrees.

Almost all of Saxony is considered a risk area

Almost all regions in Saxony are now classified as risk areas. The only exceptions are the city of Leipzig and the districts of Leipzig and North Saxony.

The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends a TBE vaccination for people in the risk areas who could come into contact with ticks. However, the vaccination rate in Saxony is low - according to the Ministry of Social Affairs, it is around 19 percent.

In the risk areas, walkers in the forest or in tall grass and bushes should wear long-sleeved clothing if possible. You should also check your head and body for ticks afterwards. Anyone who finds one of the small bloodsuckers should remove it as quickly as possible.