Western Europe has long been seen as a safe, predictable destination. Clean water, developed healthcare systems, good hygiene standards. It all creates a sense of security. But the reality is more nuanced. Illness doesn’t respect borders, and recent incidents across the region underline a simple point: no matter where you travel, you should take sensible, proactive steps to protect your health.
Food-Borne Illnesses
Anisakiasis in Greece
A 22-year-old was hospitalised after eating sushi — Greece’s first reported case of anisakiasis. This parasitic infection, contracted from raw or undercooked fish, can mimic appendicitis and often requires endoscopic removal of the worm. Prevention involves consuming properly cooked or frozen fish.
Listeria Across the Region
Multiple countries have reported recent listeria cases:
- A cluster in Denmark with an unidentified source.
- An outbreak in Stockholm.
- A Belgian case linked to French cheese.
Tick-Borne Diseases
Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE)
Recent reports include:
- A fatal case in Switzerland involving an unvaccinated traveller.
- Two deaths in the Irkutsk region of Russia.
- Rising infections in Sweden.
- A child hospitalised in Belgium.
- A national warning in Lithuania.
Vaccination against Tick-Borne Encephalitis is strongly recommended for travellers spending time outdoors in endemic regions.
Lyme Disease
Ticks are active across many Western European countries from spring to late autumn. Long sleeves, trousers, DEET or Picaridin repellent, and tick removers significantly reduce risk.
Practical Recommendations
Food safety:
- Be selective with raw seafood.
- Avoid high-risk chilled foods during outbreaks.
- Choose reputable establishments.
Tick protection:
- Use repellent on skin and clothing.
- Wear long clothing in grassy or wooded areas.
- Perform daily tick checks.
- Carry tick tweezers.
- Consider TBE vaccination.
Stay Informed, Stay Prepared
Europe remains a fantastic and generally safe region to explore. But “safe” doesn’t mean “risk-free.” These risks are manageable with practical steps, awareness, and proper travel health advice. Book your TMB consultation here: https://www.tmb.ie/services/travel-vaccines
Credit feature image:
Christian Lue via Unsplash