July brings long, sunny days perfect for countryside walks, picnics, and outdoor adventures. But with the warmer weather comes a lesser-known health risk: tick-borne diseases. Whether you’re hiking through woodlands, enjoying a picnic in the park, or holidaying in the countryside, understanding how to prevent tick bites is vital.
Let’s take a closer look at the key tick-borne illnesses in the UK, symptoms, how to protect yourself, and when to consider getting vaccinated.
Why July Is Peak Season for Tick-Borne Diseases?
Ticks are most active from spring to late summer, making July a high-risk period for bites. These tiny creatures live in grassy, wooded, or bushy areas, exactly the places people love to visit during summer outings.
In the UK, some coastal areas are known hotspots. Even your local park or garden can be home to ticks if wildlife is nearby.
Tick-Borne Diseases in the UK
Although not always visible or easy to detect, ticks can carry bacteria and viruses that lead to several illnesses. In the UK, tick-borne diseases are becoming more common, particularly during the warmer months. Knowing the symptoms and risks is key to staying protected.
Let’s start with the most widely recognised tick-related illness in the UK.
Lyme Disease: The Most Known Tick-Borne Illness
Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne infection in the UK. It’s caused by bacteria spread through infected tick bites and can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
Symptoms may include:
- A circular or oval red rash (sometimes shaped like a bull’s eye)
- Fever and chills
- Muscle and joint aches
- Fatigue
See a healthcare provider if you notice these signs, especially after spending time outdoors. Early treatment can prevent long-term problems.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE): A Rising Concern in the UK
Tick-borne encephalitis is a serious illness that affects the brain and central nervous system. It’s already common in parts of Europe and Asia, and recent UK cases have been reported.
Symptoms can include:
- High fever
- Headache
- Seizures
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Neck stiffness, more
There is no specific treatment for TBE, which is why prevention and vaccination are so important.
How to Prevent Tick Bites During Outdoor Activities?
Spending time in nature is great for your health, but it also increases your chances of encountering ticks. Fortunately, there are some practical steps you can take to avoid tick bites and lower your risk of tick-borne diseases.
Here are some quick tick prevention tips to follow before your next walk or camping trip.
Simple Precautionary Measures to Follow
To avoid tick bites and reduce your risk of tick-borne diseases, follow these easy steps:
- Wear long-sleeved tops and trousers, especially in tall grass or wooded areas.
- Tuck trousers into socks.
- Use insect repellents containing DEET.
- Stick to paths and avoid brushing against vegetation.
- Perform a tick check after outings.
What to Do If You’re Bitten by a Tick?
If you find a tick on your skin:
- Use fine-tipped tweezers to grip the tick as close to the skin as possible.
- Pull upwards gently but firmly—don’t twist.
- Clean the bite area with antiseptic.
- Watch for symptoms and seek medical advice if you feel unwell.
Avoid using heat or other home remedies to remove ticks; these can increase your infection risk.
Tick-Borne Encephalitis Vaccine: Who Should Consider It?
The Tick-borne encephalitis vaccine can help protect those at higher risk. You’ll need two injections, given two weeks apart, with the first dose taken at least a month before travel.
You may need the TBE vaccine if you are:
- Planning to hike, camp, or work outdoors in high-risk areas.
- Travelling to Europe or Asia, where TBE is more common.
- Visiting local forests or the countryside where TBE has been detected in ticks.
If you’re unsure, speak with a pharmacist. You can book your TBE vaccine through travel clinics in Hackbridge and nearby locations.
Protect Yourself with Expert Support from Anna Pharmacy
Outdoor adventures are one of the best parts of summer, but they also bring potential health risks like tick-borne diseases. With expert advice, proper precautions, and timely vaccinations, you can enjoy nature with confidence and peace of mind.
At Anna Pharmacy, we offer everything you need to stay safe outdoors—whether it’s guidance on tick prevention in the UK, access to the Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) vaccine, or comprehensive travel health consultations. Contact us today to prepare for your next countryside trip the smart way.