Protection against ticks and pests: How to stay healthy!

Protection against ticks and pests: How to stay healthy!

With the upcoming May 1st, many people are drawn outdoors to enjoy the warm season on hikes and picnic. But while nature attracts, the risk of ticks and other pests also becomes relevant. According to the Rheinpfalz, the tick bite can transmit dangerous diseases such as Lyme Borreliosis and early summer meningoencephalitis (TBE). Experts therefore advise comprehensive protective measures to protect themselves and their loved ones.

The recommended protective measures are to wear closed shoes, long pants and long -sleeved clothing to cover the skin. The use of anti-insect spray on skin and clothing can also be effective. After a stay in nature, it is important to thoroughly examine body and clothing for ticks and to remove discovered ticks quickly and properly. There are a total of 183 TBE risk areas in Germany, including the Birkenfeld district in Rhineland-Palatinate and the Saarpfalz district in Saarland, where there is a particularly high risk of infections.

TBE and ticks: Create risk awareness

The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) explains in its report that the Emsland was classified as a risk area for TBE in 2019, and eight TBE cases have been registered in this region since 2016. The constant vaccination commission (STIKO) recommends a TBE vaccination for all people who live in these areas or are often there. TBE is transferred by the stitch of the Ixodes Ricinus tick, known as a common wooden goat. The small bloodsuckers are particularly active during the warm months.

The risk of infection is in TBE risk areas in about one disease per 500 tick stitches. About 30 percent of the people who develop TBE show symptoms that normally appear 7 to 14 days after the sting. Serious complications, such as inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system, can be the consequences of infection. This emphasizes the need for vaccination for people with an increased risk that are in TBE risk areas.

other pests

In addition to ticks, there are other potential threats in nature, such as oak processionary spinners. This butterfly caterpillar can cause skin irritation, itching and even more serious reactions, especially when the burner hair comes into contact with the eyes or airways. Cleaning the clothing at at least 60 degrees Celsius and the immediate shower after contact can protect against possible reactions. Eichen processionary spinners are common in almost all districts of Rhineland-Palatinate, especially in Rheinhessen and the Rhine.

Furthermore, grass mites should not be neglected, which can also cause strong itching and skin eczema. Protective measures against grass mites are similar: wearing closed clothing and searching the body after staying outdoors. Another aspect in the garden should be the fight against possible hosts like mice to minimize the risk of a plague.

Overall, it is crucial to be aware of the risks and take the necessary protective measures in order to avoid the health consequences through ticks and other natural hazards. Further information on the TSME risk areas and detailed recommendations can be found on the website of the rki