Spring is a time of increased tick activity

Spring walks in the forest, park or meadow are a great way to relax and connect with nature. Unfortunately, in such places it is easy to come across ticks that can carry dangerous diseases such as Lyme disease or tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). That is why it is worth remembering the rules of protection against ticks and knowing the first symptoms of tick-borne diseases.

What diseases do ticks transmit?

Ticks are carriers of many dangerous pathogens. The most common tick-borne diseases are:

• Lyme disease – a bacterial disease that may present with erythema migrans, joint pain, and neurological symptoms.
• Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) – a viral disease that can lead to serious neurological complications.
• Rarer infections, such as anaplasmosis or babesiosis, can also cause serious health problems.

Where can you catch a tick?

Ticks are not found exclusively in forests. They can also be found:

• in city parks,
• in meadows and clearings,
• in home gardens,
• on allotments and in tall grass.

That's why even a regular walk with your dog can end with a dangerous prick. 

How to recognize a tick bite?

A tick bite is painless, so it often goes unnoticed. It is worth paying attention to:

• Erythema migrans – characteristic redness around the injection site,
• flu-like symptoms: fever, headache, muscle pain,
• concentration problems, joint pain, fatigue – these may appear even several weeks after the injection.

How to effectively protect yourself against ticks?

To minimize the risk of being bitten, follow these rules:

1. Appropriate clothing

• Wear long pants, socks, and long-sleeved shirts.
• Tuck your pants into your shoes – it will be harder for ticks to get to your skin.

2. Use repellents

• Use repellents containing DEET or picaridin.

3. Check your body carefully after a walk

• Especially the groin area, armpits, behind the ears, and the bends of the knees and elbows.
• The tick should be removed as soon as possible – preferably using tweezers or a special lasso.

4. Consider vaccination

• Vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is an effective form of protection – also available in our facilities.

If you notice redness or disturbing symptoms after a walk in a green area, do not delay visiting a doctor. 

Want to know more? Listen to podcasts WHAT DOES YOUR DOCTOR SAY?.

Cycle TICK-BORNE DISEASES explains in an accessible way how Lyme disease is treated, when it is worth doing tests, and what to do after a tick bite.