Doctors Report More Cases of TBE in Saxony

So far this year, there have been more cases of TBE in Saxony than last year. According to a report from the State Research Institute, doctors had recorded 19 cases of tick-borne encephalitis (FSME). During the same period last year, 11 cases had been reported. TBE can be transmitted by ticks. Nearly the entire Free State is considered a risk area. 

A second disease that can be caused by a tick bite is Lyme disease. Here, case numbers are currently slightly below last year’s level: So far, 546 cases have been reported (2026: 645). 

Last year, cases of Lyme disease in Saxony skyrocketed—rising to around 2,600 from 1,600 the year before. According to the Ministry of Social Affairs, there were also 48 cases of TBE. Nationwide, approximately 700 cases of TBE were reported.

What symptoms occur with these infections?

Lyme disease can manifest with symptoms such as fatigue, decreased performance, or fever, among others. In addition, the skin often becomes red in a circular pattern around the site of the tick bite. If left untreated, an infection can lead to inflammation of the joints, heart muscle, and nerves. TBE begins with flu-like symptoms; later, neurological deficits may also occur. A vaccine is available for TBE; Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics.

Which regions are considered high-risk areas?

Of the 13 districts and independent cities, only the city and district of Leipzig are not yet classified as TBE risk areas. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) added Northern Saxony to this list at the beginning of the year. Regions are designated as risk areas when the risk of infection for humans is so high that vaccinations are recommended.

What is the vaccination uptake like?

In the Free State of Saxony, relatively few people are vaccinated against TBE. According to the Saxon Ministry of Social Affairs, the vaccination rate is just under 20 percent. Of the approximately 700 people who contracted TBE last year in Germany, 98 percent were either unvaccinated or inadequately vaccinated, according to the RKI. Statutory health insurance plans cover the cost of the vaccine for people in TBE-risk areas.