Tick-borne Diseases: Increase in Summer and Prevention Methods
With the arrival of summer months, a significant increase in tick-borne diseases is observed as more time is spent in nature.Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) ve Lyme disease Diseases such as are becoming more important during this period. In this article, we will provide detailed information about the symptoms of tick-borne diseases, protection methods and what to do in case of a tick bite.
What is Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF)?
CCHF virus is a serious disease transmitted through infected ticks attaching to humans or through contact with blood and other body fluids. In Türkiye, especially Tokat, Sivas, Corum and Erzurum is widely seen in the provinces.
The incubation period of the disease is 1-3 days. During this period, the disease begins to manifest itself with symptoms such as high fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In advanced cases, bleeding symptoms may occur in the skin and internal organs, and the disease can be fatal. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention immediately when symptoms of CCHF are seen.
Tick Bite Protection Methods
It is possible to take some simple but effective measures to protect yourself from ticks. Here are some of these measures:
- Long Sleeve and Light Colored Clothing: When going out into rural areas, wear long-sleeved, light-colored clothing. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks.
- Tuck your pants legs into your socks: The possibility of ticks reaching the body should be reduced by tucking trouser legs into socks.
- Insect Repellent Sprays: Insect repellent sprays that can be applied to the body and clothing provide additional protection.
- Regular Body Check: The body should be checked regularly to see if there are ticks. Noticing ticks on the body is an important step in preventing disease.
Lyme Disease: Symptoms and Prevention Methods
Another tick-borne disease rarely seen in Türkiye Lyme disease, can present itself with a redness in the bite area that resembles an “ox eye”. Early symptoms of this disease include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain and fatigue. In advanced cases, arthritis, nervous system involvement and heart problems may occur.
Similar protective methods should be applied to protect against Lyme disease. Caution should be exercised in rural areas and in the event of tick bites, a health care facility should be sought immediately.
What to Do in Case of Tick Bite
Some wrong methods used by the public in the case of a tick bite can make the situation worse. Therefore, the points to be considered are as follows:
- Wrong Methods: Methods such as pouring alcohol or cologne on the tick or pressing a cigarette on it may cause the infected material to pass into the human body. Such methods should definitely be avoided.
- Application to Health Institution: When you see a tick, the best approach is to contact the nearest health institution as soon as possible. After removing the tick, it is important to follow up for symptoms for 10 days.
Conclusion
Tick-borne diseases require more attention, especially in the summer months, with the increasing number of cases. Knowing the symptoms of diseases such as Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever and Lyme disease and applying protection methods are of great importance in protecting your health. Remember, while enjoying being in touch with nature, you should always prioritize your health.
