R
Ros Ingleby
Guest
- Thread Author
- #1
It’s summer in our beautiful cities of Bristol & Bath, so just a reminder to keep your eyes out for nature’s tiniest hitchhiker and part time vampire – ticks! Tick sightings reported to the UK Health Security Agency increased by 49% between 2022 and 2024, so it’s important to be on the lookout.
Here’s everything you need to know about ticks, how to avoid them, and what to do if one latches on.
What Are Ticks?
Ticks are small, spider-like parasites that feed on the blood of animals and sometimes humans. They live in grassy, wooded and bushy areas. You’re most likely to encounter them between spring and autumn, especially in warm, humid conditions.
Why Do Ticks Matter?
Around 4-10% of ticks in the UK carry Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that if left untreated can lead to serious complications. Removing a tick within 24 -48 hours of being bitten significantly reduces the risk of infection.
Look out for these signs of Lyme disease:
If you notice any of these after a walk, especially if you know you were bitten, contact your GP as soon as possible for antibiotics.
How to Avoid Ticks While Walking
We don’t need to avoid the outdoors – a few simple precautions can dramatically reduce your chances of a tick bite:
Stick to paths where possible, especially in areas with long grass or bracken
Wear long sleeves and trousers (tuck trousers into socks if you’re venturing off-path)
Use insect repellent on exposed skin (look for products with DEET)
Check your skin and clothing after every walk, especially behind knees, underarms, waistbands, neck, and scalp
Light-coloured clothing makes it easier to spot ticks before they latch on
What If You Find a Tick?
If a tick has attached itself:
Never burn a tick or try to smother it with oil or cream — this can increase the risk of infection.
Be Tick-Ready!
We always recommend adding a tick remover to your walking kit as they’re small, cheap and easy to use. You can find them at chemists, outdoor stores or online.
If you’re ever unsure about a bite, photo it and speak to your GP. Early treatment is quick and effective.
Keep Nordic Walking With Confidence
We love the great outdoors and we’re not about to let a few tiny bugs spoil it for us! With a little awareness and some basic precautions, you can enjoy all the health and happiness Nordic walking brings, safely!
If you ever want help checking for ticks after a walk, or have questions, just ask one of us. We’re here to help.
Happy (and healthy) Nordic walking.
The Bristol & Bath Nordic Walking Team
The post Ticks: What Every Walker Needs to Know appeared first on Bristol Nordic Walking.
Here’s everything you need to know about ticks, how to avoid them, and what to do if one latches on.
What Are Ticks?
Ticks are small, spider-like parasites that feed on the blood of animals and sometimes humans. They live in grassy, wooded and bushy areas. You’re most likely to encounter them between spring and autumn, especially in warm, humid conditions.
Why Do Ticks Matter?
Around 4-10% of ticks in the UK carry Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that if left untreated can lead to serious complications. Removing a tick within 24 -48 hours of being bitten significantly reduces the risk of infection.
Look out for these signs of Lyme disease:
- A red, circular rash that may look like a bull’s-eye (but not everyone gets this)
- Flu-like symptoms: fatigue, headaches, joint pain
If you notice any of these after a walk, especially if you know you were bitten, contact your GP as soon as possible for antibiotics.
How to Avoid Ticks While Walking
We don’t need to avoid the outdoors – a few simple precautions can dramatically reduce your chances of a tick bite:
Stick to paths where possible, especially in areas with long grass or bracken
Wear long sleeves and trousers (tuck trousers into socks if you’re venturing off-path)
Use insect repellent on exposed skin (look for products with DEET)
Check your skin and clothing after every walk, especially behind knees, underarms, waistbands, neck, and scalp
Light-coloured clothing makes it easier to spot ticks before they latch on
What If You Find a Tick?
If a tick has attached itself:
- Don’t panic – it’s common and manageable.
- Use a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers – see the Lyme Disease UK website for details on safe removal.
- Clean the bite area with antiseptic or soap and water.
- Monitor for any symptoms over the next few weeks.
Never burn a tick or try to smother it with oil or cream — this can increase the risk of infection.
Be Tick-Ready!
We always recommend adding a tick remover to your walking kit as they’re small, cheap and easy to use. You can find them at chemists, outdoor stores or online.
If you’re ever unsure about a bite, photo it and speak to your GP. Early treatment is quick and effective.
Keep Nordic Walking With Confidence
We love the great outdoors and we’re not about to let a few tiny bugs spoil it for us! With a little awareness and some basic precautions, you can enjoy all the health and happiness Nordic walking brings, safely!
If you ever want help checking for ticks after a walk, or have questions, just ask one of us. We’re here to help.
Happy (and healthy) Nordic walking.
The Bristol & Bath Nordic Walking Team
The post Ticks: What Every Walker Needs to Know appeared first on Bristol Nordic Walking.