Brits have been urged to pack three vital things before setting off on an autumn walk this year owing to a considerable health risk. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has released advice on safeguarding yourself against ticks.
Ticks are tiny, spider-like creatures that inhabit long vegetation and latch onto animals, including people, when they move through tall grass.
They are becoming more prevalent in regions across the UK, chiefly because of expanding deer populations.
While feeding, they can spread viruses and infections that trigger illness, with Lyme disease being the most frequent.
In a post shared on X, the UKHSA stated: “Heading on a woodland walk? Be tick aware and don’t forget the essentials.”
It urged people to make certain they bring:
- Long sleeves and long trousers
- Repellent
- Tick remover
The organisation continued: “Ticks are common in grassy, wooded areas, so check yourself regularly during and after your walk.”
In an infographic, it detailed what to do if you find a tick on your body.
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What to do if you’ve been bitten by a tick
“Remove ticks as soon as you find them,” it recommended. “If you have a tick removal device, follow its instructions or use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers.”
You must then grasp the tick “as close to the skin as you can”. The UKHSA said: “Pull upwards firmly, making sure all of the tick is removed.”
Following a tick bite, it’s crucial to clean the area with soap and water, and keep an eye on it for “any changes” over the next few weeks, the health authority has warned.
“Look out for a spreading bullseye rash, which is a common symptom of Lyme disease three to 30 days after being bitten,” they advised.
“If you become unwell, for example with a spreading circular rash, flu-like symptoms, nerve pain or a droop on one or both sides of the face within a few weeks of a tick bite, call your GP practice or NHS 111.”
Other potential symptoms of Lyme disease include:
- A high temperature, or feeling hot and shivery
- Headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Tiredness and loss of energy
The NHS warns that some individuals who are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease continue to experience symptoms, such as fatigue, aches and loss of energy, that can persist for years. “These symptoms are often compared to fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome,” they say.
“It’s not clear why this happens to some people and not others. This means there’s also no agreed treatment.”
If your symptoms continue, or do not improve, after antibiotic treatment, you should seek medical advice. To reduce the risk of being bitten by a tick in the first place, the NHS recommends you to:
- Cover your skin while walking outdoors and tuck your trousers into your socks
- Use insect repellent on your clothes and skin – products containing DEET are best
- Stay on clear paths whenever possible
- Wear light-coloured clothing so ticks are easier to spot and brush off