Warm weather brings tick warning

People heading out to enjoy the sunshine in Devon this week are being urged to stay tick aware, as the parasites are commonly found in grass, woodland and rough countryside across the South West.

Ticks latch onto people or animals brushing past vegetation and can carry infections such as Lyme disease, although most bites are harmless. Health officials say simple precautions can significantly reduce the risk, including wearing long sleeves and trousers, using insect repellent, sticking to paths and checking skin and clothing regularly.

After being outdoors, people should check themselves, children and pets for ticks and remove any attached ticks quickly using tweezers or a removal tool, taking care not to squeeze the body.

Symptoms of Lyme disease can appear days or weeks later and include fever, headaches, fatigue and muscle aches, sometimes alongside a “bullseye” rash. Anyone experiencing symptoms after a bite is advised to contact their GP.

Ticks are most active from spring to autumn, and with more people expected to spend time outdoors in the warm weather, officials say awareness is key to staying safe while enjoying Devon’s countryside.

For more information, click here.