Health officials have issued a warning to Britons to stay vigilant against tick bites after 1,581 confirmed cases of Lyme disease infections were recorded throughout 2024.
Just as the UK Health Security Agency revealed these laboratory-verified figures, the body pointed out that actual infection rates are likely to exceed documented cases.
"It's really important that people continue to be tick aware this summer to protect themselves against Lyme disease," consultant microbiologist at UKHSA Christina Petridou said.
The bacterial infection, which is spread through tick bites, can pose particular concerns in natural environments which has dense vegetation, such as woodlands and long grass.
Tick bites can spread a bacterial infection
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Ticks carrying the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease must remain attached for extended periods to transmit the infection, according to health authorities.
As a result, individuals who discover ticks before attachment face minimal illness risk.
After being bitten, a distinctive expanding circular pattern resembling a bullseye typically emerges within a month, which tends to develop anywhere from three days to four weeks following exposure.
Additional symptoms include elevated temperature, headaches, exhaustion, nerve discomfort and numbness, although more severe manifestations may include facial paralysis in certain cases.
Tick bites can frequently go unnoticed due to their painless nature, with some ticks measuring no larger than poppy seeds.
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Confirmed infections revealed distinct regional patterns across England, with most cases occurring across southern regions during 2024.
Within the year, seasonal variations in infection rates reflect predictable patterns, as case numbers tend to climb significantly during warmer months.
As a result, spring and summer periods tend to witness the sharpest increases as families flock to nature to enjoy the sunshine.
Parks, woodland areas and fields - to name a few - were all identified as primary locations where people encounter infected ticks while enjoying outdoor leisure activities.
The UKHSA warned against using standard tweezers to remove ticks
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Preventative measures recommended by health authorities include adhering to designated pathways and avoiding contact with tall vegetation.
Protective clothing that shields exposed skin can also provide a useful defence against the threat of ticks attaching themselves.
Insect deterrents containing DEET can offer increased protection for those venturing into high-risk environments and, of course, thorough examinations of skin, clothing and pets after spending time outside is crucial for early detection.
But a speedy removal is essential when ticks are discovered attached to skin.
The UKHSA specified that specialised tick removal instruments or fine-pointed tweezers should be employed, cautioning against standard tweezers which risk crushing the parasite.
Additionally, early antibiotic intervention typically ensures successful treatment outcomes for those diagnosed with the infection.