Health officials have issued a warning to the public to stay vigilant against tick bites this summer, as new figures show over 1,500 confirmed cases of Lyme disease across England in 2024.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed 1,581 laboratory-reported cases last year, down slightly from 2023, but warned the true number is likely higher due to underdiagnosis.
Infections were reported across all regions, with the South West, South East, and London accounting for the majority.
All these were detailed in a release dated July 31, 2025, obtained from the UK government website by our correspondent on Friday.
According to the release, the summer months bring a heightened risk of tick exposure as more people spend time outdoors, particularly in grassy or wooded areas where ticks thrive.
Although not all ticks carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, and not every bite leads to infection, health experts say precautions are vital.
“It’s really important that people continue to be tick aware this summer to protect themselves against Lyme disease.
“The disease is usually acquired when spending time outdoors in green spaces, which people do more of in the summer months.
“After spending time in nature, people should take precautions such as checking for ticks and promptly and safely removing them which will reduce chances of infection,” said Christina Petridou, Consultant Microbiologist at UKHSA.
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What Is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread by ticks that have fed on infected animals, such as deer. To transmit the bacteria, a tick must typically remain attached for several hours, which is why early detection is critical.
Common symptoms include:
A spreading, bullseye-shaped rash
Fever, headache, and fatigue
Nerve pain, numbness, or a facial droop
The rash may develop between 3 to 30 days after a bite, but not all infected individuals will display it.
How to Avoid Tick Bites
To reduce the risk of Lyme disease, UKHSA recommends the following:
Stick to footpaths and avoid brushing against tall grass or dense vegetation
Wear long sleeves and trousers to reduce skin exposure
Use insect repellents that contain DEET
After outdoor activity, check yourself, your clothing, pets, and children for ticks
“While not all ticks carry the bacteria that cause Lyme disease and not all bites will result in human infection, it’s still important to check for ticks when you return from outdoor activities,” said Petridou.
What to Do If Bitten
Ticks are small and their bites rarely cause pain, meaning many people may not realise they’ve been bitten. Regular body checks after outdoor activities can help spot them before they embed.
If you find an attached tick:
Remove it immediately with a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers
Avoid squashing the tick during removal
Monitor for symptoms over the next few weeks
“If you notice any symptoms like a spreading circular rash, flu-like symptoms, nerve pain or a droop on one or both sides of the face within a few weeks of being bitten by a tick, contact your GP or dial NHS 111,” Petridou advised.
Early Treatment Crucial
Lyme disease can be successfully treated with antibiotics if caught early. Delay in treatment can lead to more serious complications involving the nervous system and joints.
“To reduce your risk of tick bites, while walking in green spaces, stick to clearly defined paths and try to avoid brushing against vegetation where ticks might be present.
“Also consider wearing clothing that covers your skin to make it more difficult for ticks to access a suitable place to bite,” Petridou said.
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