Danger in the green: Protect yourself against ticks and oak processionary moth!

Danger in the green: Protect yourself against ticks and oak processionary moth!

The warm temperatures in May pull many people outside to hike and picnic. But while nature invites you to linger, there are also dangers that lurk outdoors. Ticks are not only annoying, they can also transmit dangerous diseases such as Lyme-Borreliosis and early summer meningoencephalitis (TBE). In view of the upcoming summer, which is estimated as particularly tick -empty, it is important to take suitable protective measures in order to protect themselves from these pests, as [Proplanta] reports.

The State Center for Health Promotion in Rhineland-Palatinate recommends some basic protection measures: wear closed shoes and long pants to protect the skin. Long-sleeved clothing and using anti-insect sprays on skin and clothing are also recommended. It is also advisable to thoroughly search the body after stays outdoors for ticks. You should be particularly careful in warm, damp places in the body, as ticks often sting there. With a tick bite, it is crucial to remove the tick quickly and properly.

risk areas in Germany

In Germany there are 183 circles that are considered TBE risk areas. In the state of Rhineland-Palatinate, the Birkenfeld district and the Saarpfalz district are particularly affected in Saarland. Vaccination against TBE is urgently recommended for people in these risk areas. According to the Federal Institute for Public Health, it makes sense to regularly check your own TBE vaccination protection to ensure the best possible protection. Newly added risk areas in 2025 include the districts of Celle, Elbe-Elster and the city district of Augsburg, as reported by the [Stuttgarter Nachrichten].

It is important to note that ticks come across Germany, even in areas that are not classified as risk areas. This means that everyone who stays in nature bears the risk of a tick bite. [Zecken.de] points out that ticks can be found primarily in vegetation close to the ground such as high grass and bushes. There are numerous recommendations for preventing tick bites, but it is crucial to be aware of the dangers.

other dangers outdoors

In addition to ticks, there are also other natural hazards such as oak processionary spinners and grass mites. The oak processionary moth can cause itching and skin infections due to its burner hair. These burn hair spread in the air from the beginning of May, so special caution should be advised when contacting nests or caterpillars. You shouldn't touch your eyes, take a shower and wash the clothes at least 60 degrees. Eichen processionary spinners are widespread in almost all districts of Rhineland-Palatinate, but most often in Rheinhessen and along the Rhine.

grass mites, on the other hand, are less dangerous, but can trigger strong itching and skin eczema. Her larvae hatch from June and look for hosts. Similar to ticks, closed shoes, long pants and long -sleeved clothing are the best preventive measures against grass mites. In addition, after staying outdoors as with ticks, you should also search the body and clothing.

Nature offers many wonderful experiences, but security should always be the top priority. With the right protective measures you are well prepared to enjoy the warm months outdoors.