Mexican health officials boost tick‑bite prevention as Spain expands tick surveillance

Mexico's Secretariat of Health announced a campaign to strengthen actions against tick bites and rickettsiosis. The initiative, led by Alma Rosa Marroquín Escamilla, will run from 13–17 July during the second National Day of Rickettsiosis Prevention. Authorities will conduct home visits, pet checks, environmental spraying and public education, stressing that “a clean home also protects your health.”

In Spain, the Public Health Service reported that it examines about 2,000 ticks each year to monitor diseases such as Lyme, Crimean‑Congo hemorrhagic fever and rickettsial infections. Officials highlighted that milder winters and increased wildlife have spurred tick proliferation, and they urged the public to wear protective clothing, use repellents and keep outdoor spaces tidy.

Both countries emphasize preventive measures—regular pet treatment, habitat maintenance and prompt medical attention to suspected bites—to curb the spread of tick‑borne illnesses.