Be tick aware

With spring round the corner it is a good time to brush up on your knowledge of ticks, where they live and what sensible precautions you can take.

Ticks are small arachnids, which feed off the blood of birds and mammals, including people. They can be found in most parts of the country, usually found in long grass, rough vegetation and woodland. They can also be found in urban parks and dog walking areas too. Ticks are active from March to October, and most active in the summer months, especially in warm weather.

Unfortunately some ticks carry bacteria which can cause Lyme Disease. The symptoms of Lyme Disease are similar to those of influenza and anyone having flu-like symptoms, head-aches, muscle pain or joint pain, accompanied by a bulls-eye rash pattern on their skin after being out in nature, is recommended to talk to their doctor as soon as possible afterwards. Please see the NHS advice on Lyme Disease for more details.

Not all ticks will have the bacteria, although they are still an unwelcome presence on the host and they should be carefully removed with a special tick removal tool, which can be obtained from most pharmacies, vets or pet shops. Don’t forget to check your pets too.

You can take simple steps to avoid coming into contact with ticks, such as:

• wearing long trousers and long socks
• walking on clearly defined paths, to avoid brushing against vegetation
• avoiding dense vegetation
• wearing light-coloured clothing so ticks are easier to spot and brush off

Enjoy the countryside, but try to remember to be tick aware.

More information about ticks and associated diseases is available from Lyme Disease Action.