As nature awakens and we embrace the joys of spring, it’s important to remember that ticks are also becoming active. These tiny parasites can pose serious health risks by transmitting infections such as Lyme disease (Lyme borreliosis) and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). While Lyme disease is treatable with antibiotics, TBE is rarer, with up to 12 000 cases reported globally each year, but can be prevented with vaccination. The TBE vaccine is recommended for anyone, including children, living in or travelling to high-risk areas. In Europe, these areas include Switzerland, Austria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Sweden.

If you find a tick on your body, visit the CERN Medical Service infirmary for safe removal and expert advice.

For more information on ticks, tick-borne diseases, vaccination options and prevention tips, visit the dedicated Medical Service webpage: hse.cern/ticks.