Ticks are more numerous and active in summer months, and the HSE is warning people who are active outdoors to check for tick bites resulting in rashes or infections.

“Only a minority of ticks carry infection. If a tick is removed within the first few hours, the risk of infection is low,” Dr Paul McKeown of the HSE said.

“The entire tick, including any mouthparts which might break off, should be removed with a tweezers by gripping it close to the skin.

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“The skin where the tick was found should then be washed with soap and water and the area checked over the next few weeks for swelling or redness.

“Anyone who develops a rash or other symptoms should visit their GP and explain that they have been bitten by a tick.”

According to the HSE, Tick bites can be prevented by:

  • Wearing long trousers, long sleeved shirt and shoes
  • Wearing a hat and tuck in hair
  • Using an insect repellent (preferably containing DEET)
  • Checking skin, hair and warm skin folds (especially the neck and scalp of children) for ticks, after a day out
  • Removing any ticks and consulting with a GP if symptoms develop
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