Ticks in the New Year's tree? Experts discuss the real risk and safety measures
An unusually warm winter in central Russia has led to an early emergence of ticks, raising concerns as they hitch rides indoors on New Year’s trees. Residents in Moscow, the Moscow region, and St. Petersburg have reported finding the pests in their homes, prompting advice on how to safely handle holiday greenery.
The mild weather has disrupted ticks’ usual hibernation cycle, causing them to appear sooner than expected. While most Christmas trees come from nurseries with regular pest control, experts warn that some ticks may still cling to branches. These pests can carry diseases like tick-borne encephalitis, borreliosis, and anaplasmosis, though their brown colour often leads to confusion with harmless bark beetles.
To reduce risks, specialists recommend leaving trees in a balcony or entryway for 12–24 hours before bringing them inside. This allows any hidden insects to emerge. Shaking the tree vigorously outdoors and checking the surrounding floor can also help. Daily inspections of children and pets for ticks are advised, along with immediate medical attention if a tick is found attached to the skin. The threat of dangerous ticks is higher only if trees are imported from southern regions, where winter survival patterns differ. Most locally sourced trees pose little risk, as they undergo pest treatment before sale.
While the presence of ticks on holiday trees is concerning, simple precautions can minimise risks. Keeping trees outside briefly and inspecting them thoroughly helps ensure a safer festive season. Residents are urged to remain vigilant, especially when handling imported greenery.
