Caution advised for New Forest walkers but risk 'very low' amid likely UK presence of serious tick-borne disease

NEW Forest walkers have been advised to take care after it was announced a serious disease carried by ticks is likely to be in England.

The UK Health Security Agency has revealed the potential presence of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) following a new risk assessment published by a multi-agency cross-government committee.

However, the risk to people is said to remain “very low”.

Three probable or confirmed cases had been reported in England since 2019, including one linked to the Yorkshire area in 2022 – the first confirmed.

Both human cases and the detection of the virus in ticks in several areas of the country formed the basis of the assessment.

The New Forest is a hotspot for the bloodsuckers, but the national park authority emphasised the UKHSA’s conclusion the risk to the general public “remains very low”.

It also stated its current guidance regarding ticks has not changed, with advice including keeping to footpaths and avoiding long grass when out walking.

Jim Mitchell, of the NPA, said: “Ticks can also sometimes cause Lyme disease and our advice for staying safe remains the same when out in the Forest and other areas in the UK where ticks can be found.

“We are co-hosting a TickSolve workshop in May with the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology.

“It will bring together policymakers, organisations and landowners to help understand the issues we face about the spread of tick-borne diseases in the UK.”

Other NPA advice includes wearing appropriate clothing in tick-infested areas and using insect repellent on exposed skin.

It also advises people to inspect their skin for ticks, particularly at the end of the day, including head, neck and skin folds (armpits, groin, and waistband) and promptly remove any insects found.

Pets should be checked to ensure they are not carrying ticks in their fur.

TBEV has been previously detected in the Hampshire and Dorset border area.

Common in many parts of the world, including many European countries, it causes a range of disease from completely asymptomatic infection, to a mild flu-like illness, to severe infection in the central nervous system such as meningitis or encephalitis.

Symptoms are similar to other causes of meningitis, and can include a high fever with headache, neck stiffness, confusion or reduced consciousness.

The UKHSA has recommended changes to testing in hospitals so any further cases can be detected promptly.

It is also enhancing surveillance in areas where TBEV has been detected.

People should seek GP advice if they are unwell after a tick bite, or urgent medical attention if they or someone they know has symptoms of meningitis.

Neurological symptoms should also be looked out for, including seizures if not known to be epileptic.

Weakness or loss of movement in arms and legs, facial dropping, change in vision or slurred speech are also signs.

For more information about TickSolve visit ticksolve.ceh.ac.uk