UKHSA issues alert for anyone spending time outdoors to 'check all body parts'

 

The UK Health Security Agency has revealed that over 1,500 cases of Lyme disease were reported across the UK last year, according to its latest annual report. The South West, South East and London regions saw a significant number of these cases, prompting renewed calls for people to be aware of tick safety and Lyme disease symptoms.

Lyme disease is an infectious condition transmitted by ticks, but the agency pointed out that not everyone will realise they've been bitten, especially as smaller ticks may not cause any discomfort. Symptoms of Lyme disease can take up to 30 days to appear post-bite, but prompt treatment is crucial.

It's important to note that not all ticks carry the infection, and even if you're bitten by an infected tick, it doesn't necessarily guarantee you'll get lyme disease. The tick needs to remain attached for several hours to transmit the infection.

That's why the UKHSA is urging those spending time outdoors this summer to thoroughly check their bodies, pets and clothing for ticks. The agency also strongly recommends taking preventative measures before venturing outside to deter ticks from biting in the first place.

Simple steps like wearing clothes that cover your skin can make it harder for ticks to find a spot to bite. It's also wise to avoid brushing against vegetation where ticks might be lurking and to use insect repellent.

When you're outdoors, it's crucial to inspect your clothing and bare skin for ticks that can be easily brushed off. If you do discover a tick latched on, carefully remove it with a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers, ensuring not to crush the tick in the process.

Christina Petridou, Consultant Microbiologist at UKHSA, emphasised: "It's really important that people continue to be tick aware this summer to protect themselves against Lyme disease. After spending time in nature, people should take precautions such as checking for ticks and promptly and safely removing them which will reduce chances of infection."

"While not all ticks carry the bacteria that cause Lyme disease and not all bites will result in human infection, it's still important to check for ticks when you return from outdoor activities. If you notice any symptoms like a spreading circular rash, flu-like symptoms, nerve pain or a droop on one or both sides of the face within a few weeks of being bitten by a tick, contact your GP or dial NHS 111."

Common lyme disease symptoms:

• ‘Bullseye’ rash at the site of the bite
• High temperature
• Headaches
• Muscle and joint pain
• Tiredness and loss of energy
• Facial droop
• Nerve pain
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet

Lyme disease is treatable with antibiotics, and the earlier the treatment begins post-bite, the more effective it is likely to be.

If your symptoms are severe, you may be referred to a hospital specialist for intravenous antibiotics, according to the NHS. Most individuals can recover from Lyme disease, although recovery can take months for some.

A small number of people may experience persistent symptoms, often likened to fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. The cause of this is uncertain, and there isn't a definitive treatment for these long-term symptoms either.