Just a Tick?

Ticks are blood-sucking arachnids, found in woodlands and fields. Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is one disease transmitted by tick bites. Although TBEV is common in many parts of the world, the first confirmed (rather than suspected) UK case of TBEV was recorded in 2022. The victim was a 50 year-old, Yorkshire mountain biker (https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/apr/05/hikers-urged-to-check-themselves-for-ticks-after-deadly-virus-found-in-uk). The presence of the TBEV agent has now been found in Dorset, Hampshire and Norfolk, as well as Yorkshire. Although the disease can be mild, severe central nervous system infection produces symptoms comparable to meningitis or encephalitis. Such infections can be life-threatening, especially in the very old and the very young. Tick bites can also transmit Lyme disease, a bacterial infection. It's well worth covering up, if you are visiting tick country! Also check yourself (and others) for ticks, after visits to field locations or when camping.