“Unusually Large Ticks Spotted in UK and European Vacation Spots”
Ticks are frequently encountered in outdoor settings throughout the UK, especially in grassy and wooded areas, and they can carry diseases such as Lyme disease and, in very rare instances, tick-borne encephalitis (TBE).
However, it’s the hyalomma lusitanicum parasite, reportedly four times larger than typical ticks, that has scientists concerned.
This sizable pest is capable of transmitting the deadly Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHFV) and, unlike other ticks, actively hunts its prey.
Pest control expert Carlos Pradera, speaking to La Vanguardia, explained that hyalomma lusitanicum’s high mobility enables it to wait for an animal or human to pass by before leaping onto their skin.
Originally found in tropical climates like Africa and Southeast Asia, The Sun reported that this large tick is now spreading across Europe and reaching the UK, likely carried by wild animals such as rabbits.
“Monster tick” sightings in the UK
According to a map from the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, several sightings of hyalomma lusitanicum have been reported in parts of Wales, the Midlands, and Southeast England.
This large tick has also been observed in recent years in popular holiday destinations like Spain, the Balearic Islands, and southern Italy.
Recent sightings of hyalomma lusitanicum, as reported by The Sun, include locations in:
– Portugal
– Sardinia
– Malta
– Germany
– Sweden
– Northern Italy
Tips for dealing with these common garden pests
How to prevent ticks and tick-borne infections
The UK Government advises sticking to clearly defined paths and avoiding brushing against vegetation when walking in green spaces. Wearing clothing that covers your skin can make it harder for ticks to bite you. Using insect repellent (e.g., DEET) and regularly checking clothing and exposed skin for crawling ticks are also recommended.
After being outdoors in tick-prone areas, it’s essential to check yourself, your clothing, your pets, and others for any signs of ticks.
How to safely remove ticks
The NHS recommends using fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pulling upwards slowly without squeezing or crushing it. After removal, clean the bite area with antiseptic or soap and water.
For more information about ticks, Lyme disease, or tick-borne encephalitis, visit the UK Government or NHS website.
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