As the warmer months of spring and summer approach, outdoor activities become a popular way to enjoy the sunshine. Whether you’re hiking, picnicking, or simply strolling through a park, it’s essential to stay aware of potential health risks. One such risk is tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), a viral infection transmitted by ticks. Spring and summer are high-risk seasons for tick-borne diseases, and understanding why this is crucial can help protect you and your loved ones from this dangerous illness.
What is Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE)?
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a viral infection that affects the brain and can lead to serious health problems. It is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, which are commonly found in wooded areas, grassy fields, and places with dense vegetation. In the UK, TBE is rare, but the risk increases in certain regions, particularly in spring and summer when tick activity peaks.
Why Spring and Summer Are High-Risk Seasons for TBE?
Ticks are more active during the warmer months, which is why spring and summer are considered high-risk seasons for tick-borne diseases. As the temperatures rise, ticks emerge from hibernation and begin to seek out hosts, such as animals and humans, to feed on. The longer daylight hours and the increased outdoor activities during these seasons provide ticks with more opportunities to attach to humans and animals, increasing the chances of a tick bite.
Ticks are most active in areas with tall grass, shrubs, and woodland, which are common in parks, forests, and nature reserves. If you’re planning to spend time in these environments, it’s important to be aware of the risks of tick bites and take steps to protect yourself.
What are the Symptoms of Tick-Borne Encephalitis?
If a person contracts TBE, they may experience symptoms similar to the flu in the early stages, including:
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
In more severe cases, TBE can cause neurological symptoms such as:
- Seizures
- Paralysis
- Confusion
- Sensitivity to light
- Loss of coordination
If you experience any of these symptoms after being bitten by a tick, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and improve recovery chances.
How to Prevent Tick Bites in Summer?
While it’s impossible to completely avoid ticks in certain outdoor environments, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of being bitten.
Wear Protective Clothing
The best way to prevent tick bites is by wearing appropriate clothing when venturing into areas where ticks are likely to be present. Choose long-sleeved shirts and long trousers, and tuck the trousers into your socks to reduce the amount of exposed skin. You should also wear light-coloured clothing to make it easier to spot ticks. Don’t forget to wear a hat if you’re walking through dense vegetation.
Use Tick Repellents
In addition to wearing protective clothing, apply tick repellents to exposed skin and clothing. Products containing DEET (diethyltoluamide) or permethrin are effective at keeping ticks at bay. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying these products.
Check for Ticks Regularly
After spending time outdoors, especially in tick-prone areas, it’s important to check your body for ticks. Ticks can attach to any part of the body, but they tend to favour warm, moist areas such as the scalp, behind the ears, underarms, and around the waist. Remove any ticks promptly and safely with tweezers to avoid the risk of infection.
Avoid Tick-Prone Areas
Ticks are commonly found in wooded areas, tall grass, and bushy landscapes. If possible, avoid walking through these areas or stick to well-maintained paths. If you’re going hiking, make sure to stay in the centre of the trail to reduce exposure to ticks.
Create Tick-Free Zones at Home
If you have a garden or outdoor area, take steps to make it less attractive to ticks. Keep your lawn well-trimmed, remove leaf litter, and create a barrier of wood chips or gravel between wooded areas and outdoor spaces. These measures can help reduce the likelihood of ticks migrating into your yard.
TBE Vaccine Availability
While tick-borne encephalitis is rare in the UK, vaccination is available in certain regions where the risk is higher. If you’re planning to spend time in areas with a known risk of TBE, particularly in the countryside or nature reserves, it’s advisable to get vaccinated to provide additional protection.
The vaccine is typically administered in three doses, with the second dose given three to five weeks after the first and the third dose administered around nine to twelve months later. If you’re concerned about the risk of TBE, booking a vaccination appointment can give you peace of mind and ensure you’re fully protected.
Stay Safe This Summer: Book Your TBE Vaccine Today
Protect yourself and your family from tick-borne encephalitis this spring and summer by getting vaccinated. Book your appointment for the TBE vaccine today at Anna Pharmacy in Sutton & Carshalton or Hackbridge.
Taking simple steps to prevent tick bites, such as wearing the right clothing and using repellents, can go a long way in reducing your risk of TBE. Stay informed, stay protected, and enjoy a healthy, active summer!