Ticks & Lymes Disease

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Last revised: 20 November 2007

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What are Ticks ?

Ticks are tiny spider – like creatures which live in woodland, moorland and grassy areas.
Unlike spiders they press themselves close to the skin of the host as they crawl, ticks are most active between April and October, but in some countries they are active all year round.
Ticks cling to the ends of vegetation and wave their legs around hoping to latch on to a passing animal or person.

If a Tick attaches itself to your clothing, it may crawl around for some time before attaching to the skin.
Contact with the skin can be avoided by wearing long trousers or long socks and long sleeved shirts.
Light coloured clothes will help them to be spotted before they attach.

Remember that your pets are also at risk from Ticks, so check their fur for Ticks regularly.

What is Lymes Disease ?

Lymes Disease is an infection which can affect the skin and occasionally cause serious illness of the nervous system, joints and heart.

It is caused by a spiral-shaped bacterium, transmitted by the bite of an infected tick.

Not all ticks carry Lymes Disease, but the symptoms are: Visual lesions on the skin, swellings, painful joints especially knees.

If you are in doubt seek medical advice immediately.

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