In 2024, 24 deaths occurred in Germany attributed to tick bites. According to data released by the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) on Tuesday, fifteen of these fatalities were linked to Lyme borreliosis, and nine were due to Frühsommer-Meningoencephalitis (FSME). This figure contrasts with the previous year, when there were ten deaths from borreliosis and nine from FSME.
Regarding borreliosis in 2024, approximately 4,830 hospital treatments were recorded. This number was lower than the average seen between 2004 and 2024, during which time the average annual inpatient treatment for borreliosis was nearly 6,270. Lyme borreliosis is caused by a bacterial infection, and protection against it can be achieved by preventing tick bites; currently, no vaccine is available.
For FSME, nearly 850 patients required inpatient hospitalization in 2024. This figure significantly exceeded the average for the period 2004 to 2024, when the average annual hospitalizations due to FSME was around 490. FSME involves an inflammation of the brain and its membranes, caused by viruses. Individuals who frequently stay in areas considered to be at risk for FSME or who spend time in the wilderness are particularly vulnerable. According to the Federal Institute for Public Health (BIÖG), protection against FSME disease comes from avoiding tick bites and through vaccination.