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Risk Factors for Tick-Borne Diseases in Germany: A Scoping Review
Carolin Schlupp1, Matthias Hans Belau1
1University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Institute of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, Hamburg, Germany.
Zoonoses and Public Health
|April 8, 2026
Summary
Understanding tick-borne disease (TBD) risk factors in Germany is crucial for prevention. This review identifies key factors like age, outdoor work, and specific environmental conditions that increase TBD risk.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) are increasing in Germany.
- Lyme-borreliosis and tick-borne encephalitis are prevalent TBDs with potential neurological complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize risk factors for acquiring TBDs in Germany.
- To inform public health policy and prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review of studies on TBD risk factors in Germany.
- Searches conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed and Web of Science databases.
- Inclusion of studies in German or English.
Main Results:
- Thirty-two studies were included.
- Identified risk factors include specific age groups (3-9, 50-79), male gender, higher education, outdoor occupations, forest kindergarten attendance, pet ownership, and certain environmental conditions (spring/summer, high humidity, moderate temperatures, unmodified vegetation, high roe deer density).
- Living in southern Germany and rural areas were also associated with increased risk.
Conclusions:
- Risk factors for TBDs in Germany are similar to those identified in other regions.
- Findings can guide improved TBD prevention, early warning systems, and clinical knowledge enhancement.
