To avoid Tick bites

Ticks are not only found in the countryside, they can be in parks and gardens, too.

When possible, stick to paths and trails and don’t walk through loose undergrowth.

Tuck in – trousers into socks or boots, shirts into trousers. Minimise skin exposure as much as possible.

Apply a tick repellent. On returning home, remove outdoor clothing before going indoors and check for ticks on your body, especially hair, armpits, groin and behind knees because ticks like moist areas. It’s usually the small, nymphal tick stage (pin head size) that attacks humans so you need to look carefully.

Wear light-coloured clothing that makes it easier to see ticks. If you find them on your clothing, then tumble dry because ticks can survive washing. Keep a tick removal tool handy along with antiseptic spray or wipes.