More than 1.8 thousand people sought medical help due to tick bites

More than 1.8 thousand people sought medical help due to tick bites by the beginning of May, BELTA was informed by the Republican Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology and Public Health.

This exceeds the level of appeals registered during the same period last year. The largest number of tick attacks are noted in forests and rural areas. Tick bites in populated areas account for up to 10-11% of all registered cases.

High air temperatures in the second half of spring determined the early start of the tick activity season and the associated increase in their numbers. "According to the results of entomological monitoring, in forests in April this year, compared to the same period last year, the number of ticks increased by up to 1.5 times. Active visits to suburban areas contribute to direct contact with ticks in their natural habitat and provoke their attacks on people," the center noted. They also added that acaricidal treatments of populated areas, suburban health resorts, and children's organizations are being carried out. Based on entomological indications, more than 150 hectares have been treated since the beginning of the year.

The sanitary and epidemiological service reminds about measures for the prevention of tick-borne infections. When going outdoors, it is necessary to wear a hat and light-colored clothing that fits snugly at the wrists and ankles, and also to inspect your clothes and exposed skin every two hours to detect and remove ticks in time. Repellents are recommended to deter parasites.

If a tick is found, you should contact a healthcare organization at your place of residence or stay. Medical professionals will remove it and prescribe preventive treatment.