Watch out for ticks!

Whenever we walk in long grass or through bushes or forests, there is a danger we could be bitten by a tick.

When they bite us, they can spread diseases. The 2 main infections in Europe are Lyme disease (borreliosis) and tick-borne encephalitis (TBE).

However, there are simple measures we can take to protect ourselves.

Simple measures to protect yourself

BEFORE carrying out any activities in forests, grasslands or green spaces

• Wear enclosed footwear.
• Wear long clothing that covers your skin.
  Preferably lighter colours to show up ticks more clearly.
• Apply tick repellent to your skin and clothes.

WHILE carrying out your activities

• Avoid long grass.
• Walk along paths.
• Check your clothes regularly.

AFTER you have carried out your activities

• Thoroughly check your body and your children's:
  • the crook of your arms and behind your knees;
  • the back of your neck;
  • your back;
  • your scalp;
  • behind your ears;
  • your armpits;
  • the folds of your groin.

Removing a tick

1. Remove the tick as soon as possible using a pair of tick tweezers.
2. Slide the tweezers under the tick and gently twist until the tick is free.
3. Disinfect the bite wound. Over the following weeks, monitor the bite area for redness.

To minimise the risk of spreading infections

• Remove the tick as soon as possible.
• Avoid damaging the tick by cutting it or snapping it off.

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