Latvia recorded 539 cases of Lyme disease last year, marking the highest incidence rate in the country in 13 years, according to data from the Disease Prevention and Control Center (SPKC). This figure remains below the 724 cases documented in 2012, which represents the previous peak for the bacterial infection.
Did You Know? The Borrelia bacteria, which causes Lyme disease, is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick. These bacteria circulate in nature by living in the intestines of wild animals, moving between hosts like hares and predators such as foxes.
Why the infection rate is increasing
Entomologist Voldemars Spungis reports that the proportion of ticks carrying the Borrelia bacteria has risen significantly in recent years. Estimates suggest that between 50% and 70% of the tick population may currently be infected, a rate described by Spungis as one of the highest observed in recent years.
The spread of the disease is closely tied to the density and diversity of wild animal populations in specific regions. According to Spungis, areas with high numbers of small animals—including voles, hedgehogs, and hares—attract more predators, creating an environment where the infection circulates more effectively. This cycle is particularly prevalent in abandoned natural areas where wildlife reservoirs are undisturbed.
How to protect against tick bites
The SPKC advises that ticks typically attach to humans at heights of 5–15 centimeters above the ground. To minimize risk, the agency recommends wearing clothing that prevents access to the skin, such as tucking pants into socks or boots and choosing garments with tight cuffs and collars.
Prevention extends to domestic and urban environments as well. The SPKC suggests that property owners regularly mow grass, remove accumulated vegetation, and clear fallen branches to reduce tick habitats. For children’s play areas, experts recommend choosing sunny locations away from dense bushes and overgrown vegetation. After spending time outdoors, individuals should perform a thorough check of their body and clothing, noting that ticks are often easier to identify on light-colored fabric.
Expert Insight: The rising infection rates suggest that Lyme disease, a relatively “young” health challenge for Latvia, may remain a persistent public health concern. As the natural cycle of the bacteria continues to circulate among wildlife, the density of these animal reservoirs in proximity to human settlements will likely dictate the frequency of future human exposures.
What could happen next
Given the current concentration of the bacteria in the tick population, health authorities may continue to see high incidence rates if environmental conditions remain favorable for wildlife. If the population of small mammals and their predators continues to fluctuate in abandoned or unmanaged areas, the circulation of Borrelia could remain at elevated levels. Residents are likely to face ongoing risks in both rural forests and urban parklands, necessitating continued vigilance during the warmer months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the risks of late diagnosis?
If Lyme disease is not detected early, the infection can spread to affect a patient’s nervous system, heart, and joints, according to the SPKC.
Where are ticks most commonly found?
Ticks are found in forests, urban parks, and private plots, particularly in areas with dense vegetation, bushes, or unmanaged grass, according to the SPKC.
Does the type of clothing I wear matter?
Yes, the SPKC recommends wearing light-colored clothing to make ticks easier to spot and choosing items with tight cuffs and collars to prevent ticks from reaching the skin.
How will you adjust your outdoor routines this season to mitigate the risk of tick exposure?
