With the onset of summer, the Ministry of Health warned of an increase in tick activity due to climatic conditions favorable to their spread. This year the situation is especially alarming due to increase in disease cases Transmitted by these parasites, such as Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever and Lyme disease, which are transmitted by ticks.
Why was this warning issued in the summer?
Summer creates Favorable environment for tick activity due to higher temperatures and greater interaction between humans and nature. Ticks, especially of the genus Hyalomma, are found in greater numbers in rural and forested areas, increasing the risk of exposure to people and pets. Climate change is also playing a decisive role, extending the active season of these parasites and expanding their distribution range, which includes the Balearic Islands.
Thus, the Ministry of Health included: for the first timeobservation and control of ticks in the territory National plan for control of vector-borne diseases. The plan addresses emerging and endemic diseases, with a particular focus on Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, which has seen an alarming increase in cases since 2016, as well as a significant mortality rate.
Dangers of tick bites
Tick bites can cause numerous diseases that have serious health consequences. Among the most alarming are Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, the incidence in Spain is increasing, cases of the disease have been registered since 2010. Transmission occurs primarily through the bite of an infected tick, but it can also be transmitted from person to person. Symptoms include high fever, muscle pain and, in severe cases, bleeding.
Another important condition is Lyme diseasecaused by bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi and are transmitted by ticks of the family Ixodidae. Initial symptoms usually include a bull’s-eye rash, fever, and fatigue. If left untreated, it can lead to serious neurological and joint problems. In Spain, about 2,000 cases are diagnosed annually, although it is suspected that the real number is higher due to indirect diagnoses.
To prevent these diseases, the Ministry of Health recommends measures such as using clothing that covers the skin, apply appropriate repellents and check your body and clothing after outdoor activities. If bitten, remove the tick using blunt-tipped tweezers by pulling perpendicularly upward and seek medical attention if unusual symptoms occur.