Last year, tick bites were halved, according to Sciensano, due to the sunny weather which is unfavorable for these insects. However, it is important to remain vigilant this year as ticks proliferate during the spring season. Ticks do not only affect animals, but also humans with almost 5,000 reported tick bites in 2022. Fortunately, tick populations are expected to be less aggressive this year due to the dry weather last spring and summer. To avoid tick bites, it is advised to cover the arms, legs, and wear closed shoes and socks. It is also important to check for ticks on the skin, especially in folds, behind ears, and on the head. In the event of a tick bite, it is recommended to contact a doctor, declare the bite on Tiquesnet site, and send the removed tick for analysis.
Tick bites halved last year according to Sciensano. This is a consequence of weather that was too sunny for these insects. Does this mean that we can lower our vigilance this year? Here are some tips to get to know ticks better.
1. The tick loves animals
With the return of spring, you may be spending more time outdoors. Be careful, this is also the case for ticks. In this sweet season, they proliferate. “I know it’s very bad for your health, it can cause a lot of illnesses”remembers a walker. “In the ferns, in general, they are really well hidden in the vegetation in the undergrowth. And they drop on the dog…”continues a woman met in a park.
2. But not only…
Pets aren’t the only ones affected. In 2022, nearly 5,000 tick bites on humans were reported here. 64 in Brussels, nearly 3,000 in Flanders and just under 2,000 in Wallonia.
3. Less fierce this year
Good news: it’s twice less than in previous years. “We can explain it because it was drier in the spring and last summer”, says Lara Kotlar, spokesperson for the Agency for Quality Life (AVIQ). “And these little beasts, these pretty ugly little mites, actually prefer humidity and shade. There was a lot of sun so few ticks proliferated. So there were fewer reports .”
4. Get covered
Vigilance is still required, and not only in the forest: in the majority of cases, the bite takes place within a radius of 5 km from the home, during leisure activities and mainly in the garden. “It is above all to cover your legs and arms, wear shoes that are well closed, socks. And then what is also good is to wear a lighter garment because if it is not yet fixed on the skin we will spot it more quickly”, advises Lara Kotlar. “Thoroughly scrutinize all the skin, the arms, the legs. Especially wherever there are creases. Also on the head and behind the ears and in the neck because they really tend to stick where you least expect them.”
5. Collect the Beast
In the event of a bite, contact your doctor. You can declare it on the Tiquesnet site and send the removed tick for analysis.
In conclusion, while tick bites were halved last year due to the sunny weather, it’s important to remain vigilant this year. Ticks love animals but humans are not exempt from their bites, with nearly 5,000 reported in 2022 alone. It’s crucial to cover up when spending time outdoors and thoroughly check for ticks followingward. In the event of a bite, contact your doctor and use Tiquesnet to report it and send the tick for analysis. Stay safe and enjoy the outdoors this season.
