Poland's tick-borne encephalitis cases rise nationwide

Data from the National Institute of Public Health (PZH) and the Chief Sanitary Inspector show that tick‑borne encephalitis (KZM) patients were admitted to hospitals in all 16 Polish voivodeships during the past year. Hospitalisation accounted for 99 % of reported cases.

The highest numbers were recorded in Podlaskie (282 cases), Mazowieckie (251 cases) and Warmian‑Masurian (113 cases), with notable increases also in Lower Silesia, Mazowieckie and Podlaskie compared with the previous year. Experts link the spread to climate change‑driven expansion of tick populations and greater human mobility.

Approximately 1 % of patients die, and 35‑58 % suffer lasting neurological complications. There is no specific antiviral treatment; prevention relies on vaccination, which involves three primary doses and a booster every 3‑5 years, offered on a paid basis through primary health care.