Ticks are becoming a growing health risk in the UK – here's why
A British man is also said to have contracted alpha-gal syndrome after being bitten by a tick.
- A British man is also said to have contracted alpha-gal syndrome after being bitten by a tick.
- But in light of these reports, many may be wondering whether ticks and tick-borne diseases are a growing risk in the UK.
Are tick numbers increasing?
- Tick populations will also vary depending on the local populations of the animals they use as hosts (such as rodents and birds).
- So given the sporadic data we have on tick density, it’s difficult to estimate how much tick populations have really increased, and whether this is part of a long-term trend.
Why are things changing?
- This has been particularly noticeable in colder regions, such as in parts of Canada where ticks had not previously been recorded.
- In the UK, recent milder winters mean ticks are being sighted earlier in the year than normal.
- A push to build parks and green spaces, particularly in towns and cities, is another factor which can influence tick abundance.
What health risks do ticks carry?
- The red sheep tick (Haemaphysalis punctata) and the newly established ornate dog tick (Dermacentor reticulatus) are also becoming more common.
- The incidence of Lyme disease is fairly low in the UK (just under 3% of ticks carry it).
- But in other parts of Europe, between 9-22% of ticks carry Lyme disease – and this number is rising.
- Public health officials are particularly concerned about the spread of the lethal viral infection Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever.
- Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever is transmitted by Hyalomma ticks, which are most common in the Mediterranean basin.
Protecting yourself
- Avoid tall grasses and areas where ticks thrive (such as moorlands and woodlands), especially during the warmer months.
- If you become unwell after being bitten by a tick, it’s important to visit a GP as soon as possible.