Tick bite: How to protect yourself against dangerous consequences

Ticks are increasingly common in Switzerland. Due to milder winters, they can now be found at elevations of up to 2,000 meters. Tick bites are also on the rise – according to the Swiss National Accident Insurance Fund (SUVA), there are now 15,000 cases per year. Statistically, eight of these lead to such serious complications that the individuals affected are left permanently disabled. So the topic needs to be taken very seriously.

If you discover a tick on yourself or a family member, it is important to act quickly and correctly. In this way, you can significantly minimize your risk of dangerous infectious diseases.

Step 1: Remove tick 

• Remove the tick as quickly as possible. You can use fine tweezers or a special tick remover to grasp the tick as close to the surface of the skin as possible. 
• Pull the animal out slowly and evenly without turning it. This reduces the risk of parts of the mouth getting stuck in the skin. 
• Disinfect the bite site thoroughly after removal and keep the tick to show it to a doctor if necessary.

Step 2: Observe bite site

• Draw a circle around the bite site with a ballpoint pen and keep a watch for the skin turning red. A red circle around the bite site is typical of a tick bite.
• If you notice redness or swelling, or if the redness spreads, you should consult a doctor immediately. These can be signs of an infection.
• Flu symptoms such as fever, tiredness or joint pain can also indicate a tick infection.
• Don't wait to see a doctor, because early treatment can be crucial to avoid serious health consequences.

Ticks transmit various diseases. These are the most important ones:

• The viral disease TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) can cause meningitis, which is dangerous. It is possible to be vaccinated against this disease. 
• This is not possible with the bacterial disease Lyme disease. It can be treated successfully with antibiotics – especially if it is recognized in good time. This is why it is so important to see a doctor early on if you suspect an infection. 

• Tick bites are considered an accident and are therefore usually insured by the employer.
• If your employees regularly work outdoors, it is important to make the team aware of the dangers of ticks. This is worthwhile for all companies, as tick bites during leisure time can also cause illness and absence from work.
• In addition, employers can provide materials to increase safety, e.g. work clothing, insect repellents or special tick removers. In this way, you can promote the safety of your employees.