Poland is facing a plague of ticks this summer with the number of cases of Lyme disease set to soar.
As things stand, 9,134 instances of Lyme disease were reported between January 1 and June 30, a significant increase on the 7,714 in the same period last year.
Tick-borne encephalitis has also increased, albeit less dramatically: according to data released by the National Institute of Public Health, 159 cases have been registered in 2024, nine more compared to the same period in 2023.
Since May, health professionals have been warning of forest ticks, with areas of note including the regions of Podkarpackie, Warmińsko-Mazurskie, Lubelskie and Mazowieckie. Peak tick activity most commonly occurs in May and June and then later in September and October.
Experts advise those visiting areas prone to ticks to wear high boots and long-sleeved clothing during forest walks. After returning home, a warm shower is also recommended as well as a close inspection to ensure that no ticks have settled on the body. In the event of being bitten, people are advised to gently remove ticks with tweezers.
Early symptoms of Lyme disease include flu-like symptoms, skin lesions, fever, fatigue and joint pain. Untreated, it can lead to arthritis, heart disorders, neurological conditions or meningitis. Authorities have reminded people, however, that vaccinations against tick-borne meningitis are available and administered in three doses.
Tick-borne encephalitis has also increased, albeit less dramatically: according to data released by the National Institute of Public Health, 159 cases have been registered in 2024, nine more compared to the same period in 2023.
Since May, health professionals have been warning of forest ticks, with areas of note including the regions of Podkarpackie, Warmińsko-Mazurskie, Lubelskie and Mazowieckie. Peak tick activity most commonly occurs in May and June and then later in September and October.
Experts advise those visiting areas prone to ticks to wear high boots and long-sleeved clothing during forest walks. After returning home, a warm shower is also recommended as well as a close inspection to ensure that no ticks have settled on the body. In the event of being bitten, people are advised to gently remove ticks with tweezers.
Early symptoms of Lyme disease include flu-like symptoms, skin lesions, fever, fatigue and joint pain. Untreated, it can lead to arthritis, heart disorders, neurological conditions or meningitis. Authorities have reminded people, however, that vaccinations against tick-borne meningitis are available and administered in three doses.
Source: Polsat
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