Brits have been urged to take extra caution during nature walks this summer, as the UK's 'most dangerous insect' can land you in hospital with just one bite. Ticks, tiny spider-like arachnids, feed on the blood of animals and humans and can transmit Lyme disease, a serious infection that may lead to complications if untreated.
Why Ticks Are Considered Dangerous
According to El, a mountain leader and wild swimmer who shares survival tips on TikTok, ticks are the scariest insects in the UK. They inhabit long grass and wooded areas, making walkers vulnerable to picking them up. When an infected tick bites, it can introduce Lyme disease bacteria into the bloodstream. Left untreated, Lyme disease can cause facial palsy, irregular heartbeats, and arthritis, though early treatment is effective.
How to Prevent Tick Bites
El recommends wearing trousers even in warm weather, and tucking them into socks when walking through long grass. This simple method prevents ticks from crawling under clothing and attaching to skin.
What to Do If Bitten
After returning from areas where ticks may be present, check your skin thoroughly. Ticks remain attached like leeches, so you can spot them. Never remove a tick with your fingers, as mouth parts may remain and still transmit Lyme disease. Use a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers to grip the tick as close to the skin as possible, then pull gently upward with steady pressure. The tick should detach, leaving mouth parts intact.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease
The most recognisable symptom is a 'bullseye' rash—a circular or oval mark around the bite—which can appear up to three months after the bite, typically within one to four weeks. Some people also experience flu-like symptoms days or weeks after being bitten, including fever, chills, headache, and muscle aches. Not all ticks carry Lyme disease, but prompt removal reduces risk. Seek emergency GP advice or call 111 if you have been bitten and develop a rash or flu-like symptoms within three months.
