In Germany, approximately 600 patients were hospitalized in 2023 due to Frühsommer-Meningoenzephalitis (FSME). According to the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis), nine people died from the disease. The number of FSME hospitalizations has increased slightly over the past 20 years, although annual fluctuations are high. The highest value in the past 20 years was in the COVID-19 year of 2020, when nearly 900 patients with the primary diagnosis of FSME were treated in hospitals. FSME is caused by viral infection leading to inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Persons who are in FSME risk areas and frequently in the outdoors are especially at risk. According to the Federal Institute for Public Health (BIÖG), preventing tick bites and getting the FSME vaccination can protect against the disease. In 2023, about 5,400 patients were hospitalized due to Lyme disease and ten people died from the disease. The number of Lyme disease hospitalizations has decreased slightly over the past 20 years. In 2003, there were about 7,600. Lyme disease is caused by a bacterial infection and avoiding tick bites is the primary means of protection. Currently, there is no vaccine available for the disease.
FSME hospitalizations rise to 600 in Germany, with 9 deaths in 2023
