Public health risks from tick-borne diseases

Medical experts are highlighting the health risks associated with tick bites, noting that rising summer temperatures and increased outdoor activity contribute to higher encounter rates.

In Turkey, Dr. Gültekin Akyol has warned that risks extend beyond Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) to include Lyme disease and rickettsia infections. He advised against using alcohol, oil, or heat to remove ticks, as these methods may cause the parasite to vomit and increase infection risk. Instead, he recommended using tweezers to remove ticks at the closest point to the skin.

In Spain, Dr. Julio Muñoz of Hospital Vithas Valencia 9 de Octubre noted that tick bites are a frequent cause for medical consultations during the summer. He highlighted that ticks often go unnoticed because they inject anesthetic and anticoagulant substances during feeding. Experts recommend thorough body checks after visiting wooded or vegetated areas and advise seeking medical attention if symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, or swollen lymph nodes appear.