By Sarah Quillen

As an international network of dedicated clinicians and researchers, the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) proudly represents professionals from 23 countries, united in their commitment to caring for patients around the world.

But it’s not enough.

Across Europe and beyond, a growing number of people are being affected by tick-borne illnesses. Climate change, increased travel, and shifting ecosystems all play a role.

Unfortunately, gaps in diagnosis, inconsistent treatment pathways, and limited training and awareness continue to delay or deny care.

In many European countries, conditions such as tick-borne encephalitis remain rare or unfamiliar to general practitioners, creating diagnostic blind spots even as cases gradually increase.

Does this sound familiar? Does it hit a little too close to home?

Education remains a cornerstone challenge. As one of the very few truly international medical societies, ILADS has a responsibility to step up and support both providers and patients.

ILADS is coming to London

On April 16-18, ILADS will host its 2026 European Scientific Conference in London, bringing its signature educational programming to the region, including a European-specific Vector-Borne Illness Fundamentals Course.

Additional conference topics will include Mast Cell Activation Disorder, peptide and bioregulator therapies for chronic Lyme, Lyme and COVID-related conditions, and more.

During the conference and beyond, ILADS will actively pursue cross-border collaboration, including the development of European research networks.

What is urgently needed now is commitment — from national health systems, professional societies, and patient advocates — to close awareness gaps, align diagnostic and treatment pathways, and ensure equitable access to care for all Europeans at risk of tick-borne illness.

We are a global community of clinicians, scientists, and caregivers. Across Europe and around the world, countless practitioners are dedicated to caring for patients and advancing the science of tick-borne disease.

ILADS owes it to these patients, and to this growing community of professionals, to strengthen and support this vital network. That means expanding our international roster of experts and continuing to educate, collaborate, and lead in service of our mission.

Click here for registration information.

Sarah Quillen is executive director of the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) and its sister organization, the International Lyme and Associated Disease Education Foundation (ILADEF).