Written question WQ98818

The prevalence of Lyme Disease in Wales is lower than in other parts of GB and Public Health Wales considers this to be due to differences in geography and ecology. Although Lyme disease is transmitted by tick bites, the majority of such bites will not lead to this disease.

Tick awareness forms part of Public Health Wales’ summer health campaigns, which are likely to commence at the end of June. Last year Public Health Wales also published a specific news story in the Western Mail to increase public awareness, in addition to working with relevant local authorities on signage for events in high-risk areas.

The National Institute for Heath and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance on Lyme disease was published in April 2018. Overview | Lyme disease | Guidance | NICE

This covers awareness-raising for healthcare professionals, clinical guidance on the diagnosis and management of the disease (including support for ongoing symptoms) and information for patients. The Chief Medical Officer for Wales communicated this guidance to the NHS in Wales, with a directive to ensure that GPs and those working in Emergency Departments are aware.

There is a range of publicly available information online, including on NHS 111 Wales: NHS 111 Wales - Health A-Z : Lyme disease

The Welsh Government takes an integrated One Health approach that aims to sustainably balance and optimize the health of people, animals and ecosystems. It recognizes the health of humans, domestic and wild animals, plants, and the wider environment (including ecosystems) are closely linked and interdependent. This approach helps ensure a shared awareness of key issues and a joined-up approach to surveillance, prevention, preparedness and response to emerging biological threats including vector-borne diseases such as Lyme disease.