Tick bite infections increase in Switzerland

Health authorities are reporting an increase in infections carried by ticks. So far, there have been 8,400 cases of acute Lyme disease and 119 people who have contracted tick-borne encephalitis.

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Both of these infections are transmitted to humans by tick bites. Although the risk for the geenral traveller is low, travellers in areas where these diseases occurs can reduce their risk of exposure by avoiding tick bites, whenever possible, especially when hiking or camping in fields and forests. Checking the skin daily for ticks and prompt removal of an attached tick will help to reduce the risk of infection.

There is a vaccination for tick borne encephalitis (only available in Europe) and should be considered, especially if itineraries involve extensive hiking and camping in tick habitats.