The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), in collaboration with its partners, has published its first comprehensive One Health annual surveillance report on vector-borne diseases in England. This landmark report, covering data for 2025, provides a detailed overview of infections transmitted by vectors such as ticks and mosquitoes, revealing that Lyme disease remains the most prevalent vector-borne illness across the country.
The One Health approach, central to this report, recognises the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and the environment. By integrating data from these diverse areas, the UKHSA aims to gain a more holistic understanding of how vector-borne diseases emerge, spread, and can be controlled. This integrated surveillance includes monitoring tick populations, mosquito species, and reported human cases, alongside environmental factors that influence vector activity and disease transmission.
Lyme disease, caused by bacteria transmitted through tick bites, has consistently been a concern in the UK. The report's findings for 2025 underscore the ongoing challenge it presents. Symptoms can include a distinctive 'bull's-eye' rash, fever, and muscle aches. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe complications affecting the joints, heart, and nervous system. Public awareness campaigns often advise individuals to be vigilant for ticks, especially after spending time in grassy or wooded areas, and to seek medical attention if they suspect a bite or develop symptoms.
The publication of this annual report marks a significant step forward in the UK's strategy for managing infectious diseases. By systematically collecting and analysing data on vector-borne pathogens, the UKHSA and its partners can better identify emerging threats, understand geographical patterns of disease, and develop targeted public health interventions. This proactive approach is crucial in an era where climate change and global travel can influence the distribution and prevalence of vectors and the diseases they carry.
Future editions of the report are expected to build upon this initial baseline, offering year-on-year comparisons and deeper insights into trends. This will allow health authorities to assess the effectiveness of current prevention and control programmes and adapt strategies as new challenges arise. The information will be vital for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public in understanding and mitigating the risks associated with vector-borne diseases in England.
Source: UKHSA