Ticks are getting more dangerous in Germany
Hyalomma ticks They become a real nuisance for our western neighbors. It is primarily about The species of hyalomma marginatum, i.e. a traveling tickwhich is larger than native arachnids almost twice (5-6 mm). The varieties previously occurring in Asia and Africa are very dangerous. They can transfer a dangerous, deadly disease.
Threats from invasive arachnids
Lyme disease is one of the most common diseases transmitted by ticks. Hyalomma marginatumwhose nymphs travel even over long distances together with migrating birds, They can, in turn, carry the Crymsko-Congian fever virus (CCHF). This is a very serious disease with a violent course. There are numerous hemorrhage or organ failure during the case of many people infection ends with death. In Germany, CCHF has not been confirmed so far.
Austria may also have a problem
Hyalomma marginatum has already appeared in southern Europe, including on the Turkish Mediterranean coast. However, they have not been recorded in the northern regions so far. Currently They were noticed not only in German Bavaria, but also in Austria. This is favored by a higher and higher temperature resulting from change climate, so warmer years and milder winters. They also appeared reports about the presence of Hyalomma species in Poland.
How to properly protect yourself from ticks?
Before going to the forest, to the meadow or to another place where there is a high probability of come across ticks, It is worth putting on the right clothes – with long sleeves and legs. You can also use insect repellent agents. After a walk, it's good to take a shower and search your clothes. If necessary, the tick can be pulled out with a special tool, while some popular advice is a bad idea, such as grease grease.
Sources: O2, Frankfurter Rundschau