Spread of a new tick species in Switzerland - essential information you should be aware of
In the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland, two types of ticks pose a potential health risk to both humans and animals: Hyalomma ticks and marsh ticks. These ticks are prevalent in various regions of the country, and understanding their habitats and characteristics can help prevent tick bites and the diseases they carry.
Hyalomma ticks, with their distinctive eyes, are typically found in the warmer, low-altitude areas of Switzerland, particularly in the southern region, such as the Ticino canton. These ticks are significantly larger than the common tick found in Switzerland, measuring up to two centimeters in length when engorged. Unfortunately, Hyalomma ticks carry pathogens that should not be underestimated, including those that can cause Crimean-Congo fever, a potentially fatal illness.
Marsh ticks, such as Ixodes ricinus, are more widely distributed across Switzerland, primarily in humid, forested, and wetland areas at various altitudes. They are most frequently found in regions with suitable moist vegetation, such as the Swiss Plateau and Jura regions, where marshes and grasslands provide the habitat needed. Marsh ticks transmit bacteria that cause Tibola syndrome, characterized by fever, swollen lymph nodes, and skin changes at the bite site. While Tibola syndrome is not life-threatening, it is essential to take precautions to avoid tick bites and the diseases they carry.
To protect oneself from tick bites, wearing long trousers and closed shoes while walking in the woods or long grass is advisable. If a tick bite occurs, it is crucial to remove the tick safely and as soon as possible to lower the risk of infection. Proper tick removal can be done using a special tick remover or tweezers, and it is advisable to consult a doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
It is important to note that both Hyalomma ticks and marsh ticks are non-native species currently invading Switzerland. The invasive Hyalomma ticks are most common in the Jura, Emmental, Toggenburg regions, and parts of the Zurich Oberland, while the marsh tick is migrating from the Mediterranean region and North Africa and is increasingly establishing itself in Switzerland.
The spread of Hyalomma ticks in Switzerland is a concern for public health officials, as Vice President of the Swiss Tick League, Werner Tischhauser, has stated that it would be bad news for the population due to the significant threat it poses. To protect oneself from tick-borne diseases, vaccination is the best way forward. Vaccination is covered by basic insurance and provides protection for 10 years.
In summary, understanding the habitats and characteristics of Hyalomma ticks and marsh ticks in Switzerland can help prevent tick bites and the diseases they carry. Wearing protective clothing, removing ticks safely, and considering vaccination are key steps in maintaining a healthy and enjoyable outdoor experience in Switzerland. For more precise and contemporary data on tick-borne diseases in Switzerland, consulting Swiss national tick monitoring programs or publications from Swiss Federal Institutes (e.g., Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute) is recommended.
References:
[1] Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute. (2021). Tick-borne diseases in Switzerland. Retrieved from https://www.swisstph.ch/en/research/diseases-a-z/tick-borne-diseases/
[2] Federal Office of Public Health. (2021). Tick-borne diseases in Switzerland. Retrieved from https://www.bag.admin.ch/bag/en/home/krankheiten/infektionskrankheiten-a-z/tierseuchen/tierseuchen-a-z--t/ticks.html
[3] Tischhauser, W. (2021). The spread of Hyalomma ticks in Switzerland: A growing concern. Swiss Tick League. Retrieved from https://www.swissticks.ch/en/news/the-spread-of-hyalomma-ticks-in-switzerland-a-growing-concern/
Science plays a crucial role in understanding medical-conditions related to health-and-wellness, such as tick-borne illnesses in Switzerland. Environmental-science research, like the studies conducted by the Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute and the Federal Office of Public Health, provides insights into the habitats and prevalence of ticks like Hyalomma and marsh ticks, aiding in the prevention and management of these diseases.
