Disease-carrying ticks prevalent in National Park

THE NORTH York Moors has been highlighted as an area prevalent for Lyme Disease-infected ticks as part of a campaign to raise awareness of tick bites.

Tick Bite Prevention Week, which runs until Sunday, has been organised by the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) with its Deer Officer, Audrey Watson, warning they carry a range of diseases, the “most prominent” being Lyme Disease.

“The bacteria responsible for the disease is passed into our bloodstream when a tick bites by burrowing into the skin,” she said.

“Lyme Disease is potentially very serious, and, if left untreated, can lead to chronic fatigue and eventually affect the joints, the heart and the nervous system.

“It can be treated with antibiotics if caught early enough but everyone needs to be able to recognise the signs, which include a characteristic bullseye rash. They also need to check themselves – and their dogs – after being in tick-prone areas.”

Ms Watson said it was important to raise awareness of the disease as, while it is highly treatable, it can be debilitating.

She said the more people are aware of it, the more likely they are to take steps to avoid tick bites or seek early treatment.

The North York Moors is listed among a number of areas including the Lake District,

Scottish Highlands and Islands, the New Forest and South Downs which are “especially prevalent” for ticks carrying Lyme Disease.

“The best way to reduce the chances of a tick bite are to wear long trousers and sleeves and not to walk through high bracken or high grass,” Ms Watson advised.