Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

The visitors are in very good hands with Deputy Feighan. They are welcome.

I thank Senator Cosgrove for raising this important matter and for the opportunity to speak on the issue of Lyme disease awareness. I am taking this matter on behalf of the Minister for Health, Deputy Jennifer Carroll MacNeill. Lyme disease, also known as Lyme borreliosis, is an infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks, and it can occasionally lead to serious illness. Each year, it is estimated that between 200 and 500 cases of early Lyme disease occur in Ireland. Ticks are present throughout Ireland, including both urban and rural areas. Although ticks can be active year-round, the period of highest tick activity and therefore Lyme disease is between April and October. Approximately 5% of ticks in Ireland are thought to carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Importantly, a tick usually needs to be attached to the skin for at least 24 hours before it can transmit the infection. High-risk environments include grassy and wooded areas as well as sand dunes - places where people often enjoy outdoor activities.

The HSE’s national health protection office, through the Health Protection Surveillance Centre, HPSC, provides information on the surveillance of Lyme disease. The HPSC offers a wide range of resources to help people reduce their risk of tick bites, including seasonal updates for both the public and healthcare professionals. Each year in early May, the HSE marks Tick Awareness Day, by providing practical advice on the prevention of tick bites, which can transmit Lyme disease. This is done through website news articles, social media posts, press releases and media interviews. This initiative encourages individuals to take preventive measures during periods when tick activity is highest. Information is provided on common tick habitats, high-risk behaviours, prevention strategies, and how to safely remove and identify ticks. To further spread public awareness, the HSE provides downloadable posters and leaflets that are intended to be distributed in community centres, schools, and recreational and other common public and private spaces, especially those with an increased risk of tick exposure. These materials are designed to inform individuals about the risks of tick bites and the importance of preventive actions. A full suite of Lyme disease resources, including posters and information leaflets, is available through the HPSC website. These posters are suitable for display on publicly accessible land, and the HPSC has actively promoted their availability to Departments and public agencies that manage such areas. Local authorities, healthcare professionals, and members of the public are encouraged to download and share these materials.