Advice from UK Government 2025.
Ticks can transmit microbes that cause infections such
as Lyme disease or tick borne encephalitis.
Being tick aware by using the following information can
help to reduce the chance of tick bites and of being
infected:
• you or your pets could be exposed to ticks whenever you spend
time outdoors, including when in your garden or the
local park
• ticks mainly attach to animals, but sometimes they
may bite you, your family or your pets
• you can reduce the chance of tick bites by walking
on clearly defined paths, using insect repellent and
performing regular tick checks
• ticks can bite anywhere on the body, including in
your hair. More than one tick can be attached to you
at a time
• some tick bites can result in infection, so it is important
to remove ticks safely and as quickly as possible
• the safest way to remove a tick is by using a pair of
fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool
• if you begin to feel unwell with flu-like symptoms, persistent headache,
confusion or develop a spreading circular red rash (which usually appears within
1 to 4 weeks after being bitten), contact your GP or NHS 111 promptly.
Mention if you were bitten by a tick or have recently spent time outdoors
www.nhs.uk www.gov.uk www.nice.org.uk/guidance