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It is important that all staff and students are aware of the dangers of ticks when working, studying or researching outdoors in the UK

As the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions ease on 17th May 2021 as part of the Governments roadmap out of lockdown, there will be a gradual return to fieldwork and research projects within the UK.Ìý
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When working outdoors in the UK, it is important to be aware of the dangers of a tick bite,Ìýhow to prevent it from happening and what to do if you get bitten..

What are ticks?

TicksÌýare small, spider-like creatures that feed on the blood of animals andÌýpeople. The size of a tick can vary, with a larva being as small as a tiny freckle, and fully fed females similar in size to a baked bean.

Where do you find ticks?

Ticks can be found across the UK and are most active during warmerÌýtimes of the year (spring - autumn).

The common risk zones are:

• Areas with long grass and vegetation
• Undergrowth
• Woodlands
• Moors and heaths
• Urban parks and gardens

What are the dangers of ticks?

Most tick bites are harmless, but ticks can carry disease, most commonly , which they can transmit to humans once they bite and are attached to the human.

They can stay attached for several days whilst they feed on blood before eventually dropping off. Tick bites are painless and can go unnoticed - the longer the tick is attached, the greater the risk of infection of Lyme disease.

What do I need to do?

If you are planning to conduct fieldwork or research outdoors within the UK and will be working around or near to the common tick risk zones, then you should consider the risk of ticks and other insects as part of your risk assessment.

The risk assessment should consider ways to avoid ticks and what to do if you are bitten.Ìý

Avoiding ticks

To avoid ticks, some simple steps can be followed:

• Keep to clearly defined paths to keep away from long grass and vegetation
• Wear light-coloured clothes so ticks can be easily spotted and brushed off
• Keep your legs and arms covered
• Use insect repellentsÌý
• Check yourself regularly for ticks on your body or clothes whilst working and especially during breaks or when you get home

What to do if you are bitten

• Remove the tick as soon as possible, using an appropriate tick removal tool
• Do not squash the tick when removing it or apply any pressure to the tick with creams, oils or heat
• Remove the tick slowly and firmly
• Once removed, clean the bite area with soap and water or antiseptic
• Monitor the area for several weeks after the bite for any changes
• Contact your GP if you begin to fell unwell with flu-like symptoms or develop a circular red rash around the bite area

Further information and guidance can be found at the following resources:

• Safety guidance for working outdoors
• (Public Health England)
• (Lifesystems)

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