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Nasty disease carriers ticks are also common in cities
Ticks can transmit dangerous infectious diseases such as tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) or Lyme disease. The little bloodsuckers are mainly found in forests and meadows. However, they have now spread to cities and can now be a health risk in parks and gardens.
Carriers of dangerous diseases
Experts point out how important it is to protect themselves from ticks. The little bloodsuckers can eventually transmit dangerous infectious diseases such as tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) or Lyme disease. What many people are unaware of is that ticks have long ceased to exist only in forests and meadows. The animals have also spread in large cities.
Ticks can transmit dangerous diseases such as TBE or Lyme disease. The little bloodsuckers are now also spreading in cities. (Image: emer / fotolia.com) Ticks also in our gardens
Ticks are also lurking in the garden. The University of Hohenheim reported in a statement that "in 60 percent of all gardens ticks" were detected.
Although their investigations were confined to the Stuttgart area, "we can assume that the results can be transferred to other cities," explained Prof. Dr. med. Ute Mackenstedt from the University of Hohenheim.
"The one who steps out the front door is in the habitat of the ticks," says the expert.
Also city dwellers must be attentive
The tick expert of the nature conservation federation (Nabu) in Baden-Wuerttemberg, Stefan Bosch, now pointed out in a message of the news agency dpa that city dwellers should be attentive and sensitive.
For example, the wood buck, a widespread species of ticks, use all the habitats that meet his demands. The animal likes it green, with foliage and a bit damp.
"The tick used to be a forest animal, but it's certainly present everywhere and you have to count on it everywhere," said Bosch.
Scour body for ticks
It makes sense to scan your body for ticks after a stay in a city park or forest.
When hiking, you should always remember to wear long trousers and, if necessary, put the trouser legs in the socks. Specialized sprays, known as repellents, can keep the creepy-crawlies away.
After a tick bite, you have to hurry. Lyme disease pathogens spread in the bloodstream eight to twelve hours after the sting. Therefore, one can drastically reduce the risk of infection by finding and removing ticks early.
Vaccination against TBE
If you notice the bloodsuckers on the body, you should quickly remove them with tape. Or with tweezers.
If the animal has already sucked in, it is important when removing not to squeeze the blood bag, as this may result in infectious saliva or intestinal contents getting into the bloodstream of the affected person.
In addition to Lyme disease, ticks can also transmit tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). Against the latter, a vaccine is available, which is recommended in particular residents of risk areas. (Ad)