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Islanders warned of Jersey's tick 'hotspots'

Islanders warned of Jersey's tick 'hotspots'

BBC News29-04-2025

Islanders have been warned to take care when walking around Jersey's tick "hotspots".On Monday, the Jersey government posted on its Infrastructure and Environment Facebook page to warn followers of an increase in tick activity during spring. A government spokesperson said hotspots for the parasitic arachnids included Pont Marquet Country Park, Les Quennevais woodland paths and Noirmont.They advised people to stick to designated paths when walking in the countryside, carry out regular tick checks and to use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool if a tick was found.
Islanders were also advised to contact their GP if they felt unwell.
What is a tick?
The Jersey government defines a tick as a "small spider-like parasite" that "feeds on the blood of birds and mammals, including humans".They can be identified by their eight legs and an egg-shaped body which become larger and darker when filled with blood. Ticks are more likely to found in woodland and grassland. The bites of a tick can carry diseases, so the Jersey government has warned people it is "important to remove them straight away".
Lyme disease
One disease ticks can carry is Lyme disease, which is a bacterial infection that can be contracted by humans. Only a small number of ticks carry the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease so being bitten does not mean you will be infected.In Jersey, the risk of Lyme disease is "very low" and only two people have been infected since 2015, according to government sources. The most common signs of Lyme disease are:A circular bullseye or oval shape rash around a tick biteFeverHeadacheFlu like symptomsFeeling tired

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How to treat summer bug bites and stings
How to treat summer bug bites and stings

Scotsman

time03-06-2025

  • Scotsman

How to treat summer bug bites and stings

An estimated 10 people die every year after being stung by a bee or a wasp 🐝 Sign up to our daily newsletter – Regular news stories and round-ups from around Scotland direct to your inbox Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Warm temperatures across the UK have mean more of us are enjoying time outside. This increases our risk of being bitten or stung by an insect, which can be dangerous. It's estimated around 10 people a year die after being stung by a bee or a wasp. George Sandhu, Deputy Superintendent at Well Pharmacy advises on how to treat common bug bites and stings. With the warm weather this spring more of us are spending time outdoors, putting us at risk of being bitten or stung by a summer bug. George Sandhu, Deputy Superintendent at Well Pharmacy, is urging people to be on their guard after encounters with insects, the leading pharmacist has issued guidance on what to do if you get stung and when to call 999. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Around 10 people a year die in the UK due to bee and wasp stings after going into anaphylactic shock. Experts from Well Pharmacy, want to help members of the public know how to tell the difference between a variety of bites and stings so they can best treat the wound. Here is everything you need to know about how to treat common bug bites and stings this summer and when to seek medical attention. Around 10 people die in the UK every year from bee and wasp stings. | THOMAS KIENZLE/AFP /AFP via Getty Images How do you know you've been bitten or stung? Mr Sandhu said: 'Symptoms of an insect bite or sting will usually begin with a swollen lump on the skin which can be red in colour. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'It is essential to be vigilant to any new bite or sting and it is advised that patients seek medical attention if they are unsure whether or not they have been stung. This is because bites and stings, while often not serious, can trigger a severe allergic reaction, which in some cases can prove fatal. 'Other bites, which might not be fatal, can also lead to diseases like malaria, Lyme disease or scabies.' Under the Pharmacy First scheme, patients can seek advice and treatment about infected insect bites and stings from a pharmacist, without the need to speak to a GP. But, Mr Sandhu stresses that anyone suffering immediate shortness of breath after contact with an insect must call 999. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad How to treat a wasp or hornet sting? A wasp or hornet sting will usually leave a small mark where the stinger entered the skin and at times can leave a throbbing in the affected area. The sting causes pain, redness and swelling for a few hours. Some people may experience a mild allergic reaction that lasts up to seven days. In worst cases, a sting can leave the patient suffering anaphylaxis, which leads to severe breathing difficulties and can even become fatal. Other symptoms include dizziness and a swollen face or mouth and if you or someone in your company is experiencing these symptoms then dial 999 for an ambulance right away. Unlike bees, wasps and hornets do not leave their sting in the wound, so the chances of infection are relatively rare, but it is essential to ensure the affected area is cleaned. Placing an ice pack wrapped in a cloth or a clean cloth soaked in cold water on the sting for around 20 minutes will help to reduce swelling and alleviate the pain. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad It is advised to keep the affected area raised, if possible, and over-the-counter drugs like paracetamol or ibuprofen will help with any associated pain. Antihistamines and hydrocortisone cream can also help to relive itching and reduce swelling. How to treat bee stings? A bee sting can feel similar to a wasp sting with one major difference - the stinger will usually be left in the wound. Unlike wasps and hornets, bees possess a single stinger and die once they have used it. While a bee sting is said to be milder than that of a wasp or hornet, you should expect to experience similar symptoms, with some experiencing swelling for a few hours and may have an allergic reaction lasting for up to seven days. As with other stings, if you or someone in your company experiences breathing difficulties, dizziness or a swollen face then dial 999 for an ambulance. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad You can remove a bee sting by brushing or scraping the stinger sideways with a finger or edge of a bank card. It is recommended not to use tweezers to attempt to remove a bee sting because it could end up forcing more poison into the bloodstream. Once the stinger has been successfully removed, it is recommended to clean the wound with soap and cool water to reduce the risk of infection. How to treat mosquito bites? Mosquito bites are usually small, raised and itchy, they do little damage if a person is bitten in the UK, however, a bite from a mosquito abroad could be a much more serious issue and must be monitored. The bite develops into small red lumps on the skin that can become fluid-filled blisters. You may have the urge to scratch the itch from the bite, but this is highly discouraged. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad To treat a mosquito bite, wash the bite and surrounding area with soap and cool water and use an ice pack for around 10 minutes to reduce swelling and relieve itching. You can also apply over-the-counter antihistamine tablets or cream to help with the itching. How to treat tick bites? The tick is a small, black insect that burrows its head into the skin and can cause serious disease in both humans and animals. Ticks will bite and while this is not painful, the potential after-effects can be debilitating. If you enjoy hiking, you are advised to keep skin covered in affected areas of the UK to protect yourself. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Symptoms of a tick bite include a small red lump on the skin which can swell or blister and becomes very itchy, however, the most serious consequence of a tick bite is Lyme disease. A bullseye style rash is one of the biggest signs a patient may have contracted Lyme disease, and they are advised to seek medical help as soon as able. You should see your GP if you develop a pink or red rash, have a temperature of 38C or above, suffer flu-like symptoms, headache or joint pain, or have swollen lymph nodes. 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Midges are commonly found in Scotland over the summer, as they love the warm, damp, Scottish climate. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad The bite from a midge is usually very small and slightly raised, it can cause a small, red lump that can become quite itchy. In rarer cases, a midge bite can cause patients to develop fluid-filled blisters. To treat a midge bite, keep the area clean, apply an ice pack, keeping over-the-counter painkillers and antihistamines can ease the pain and itching. If you believe the area has become infected, speak to your local pharmacist for advice. How to treat mite bites? While a bite from a mite isn't life-threatening, it can cause a condition called scabies to develop. Often, a mite can bite someone on exposed skin when they are holding their dog or cat. Scabies is a highly infectious condition that can be quickly passed from person-to-person, but it can take up to eight weeks for the rash to appear. 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‘Perfectly healthy' girl, 4, left paralysed after family camping trip after giant critter feasted on her scalp
‘Perfectly healthy' girl, 4, left paralysed after family camping trip after giant critter feasted on her scalp

Scottish Sun

time29-05-2025

  • Scottish Sun

‘Perfectly healthy' girl, 4, left paralysed after family camping trip after giant critter feasted on her scalp

Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TAYLOR Justice was 'terrified' when her 'healthy' daughter Madeline Tuckwiller woke up paralysed after a camping trip - all because of a tick. "She couldn't walk and she was crawling on the floor," the 31-year-old mum said. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 Madeline Tuckwiller, 4, with her mum Taylor Justice Credit: Kennedy News 6 The giant tick found feating on Madeline's scalp Credit: Kennedy News 6 Madeline woke up from her family camping trip paralysed Credit: Kennedy News Taylor, from West Virginia, US had taken her four kids on a short camping trip on Sunday May 11 to mark Mother's Day. Five days later, Taylor noticed something was seriously wrong with her four-year-old daughter. Madeline was struggling to move and appeared dazed, unable to get herself off the ground. Taylor rushed her to hospital where medics began running a series of tests and scans but they couldn't figure out what was causing the paralysis. She was then transferred to a specialist children's hospital three hours away, where her condition seemed to be getting worse. 'The paralysis affected her whole body,' Taylor said. 'It started from the bottom and was working its way up. She couldn't sit up and wasn't even making eye contact.' Doctors monitored Madeline closely overnight. By the next morning, she had lost function in her hands. It was only when a neurologist asked about the family's outdoor activities that he decided to examine her scalp. They found a dime-sized female Rocky Mountain wood tick hidden in her hair, latched onto her skin and feeding. Justin Bieber discusses his battle with Lyme disease and how it has affected him It had been releasing a neurotoxin into Madeline's bloodstream, triggering a rare condition called tick paralysis. The tick was carefully removed, and within hours, Madeline's mobility began to return. 'She was able to walk again about four hours later,' Taylor said. 'It was such a relief.' Ticks can hide anywhere and the earlier you catch it, the bette Taylor Justice The youngster was also given antibiotics to lower the risk of Lyme disease, which ticks can carry and which can cause long-term complications if not treated early. Taylor, a salon owner, said she had never heard of tick paralysis before. 'It's frightening how something so small can do that kind of damage,' she said. 'I'll be so much more careful now.' 6 Madeline was struggling to move and appeared dazed, unable to get herself off the ground Credit: Kennedy News 6 The fateful family camping trip Credit: Kennedy News Madeline has started to recover but still wakes up with some stiffness in her legs in the mornings. Thankfully, she's regained full movement during the day and is back to her usual self. How to prevent tick bites - and remove the bugs There are a few things you can do to lessen your likelihood of tick bites. Firstly, try and cover as much of your skin as possible while walking outdoors and tuck your trousers into your socks. You should also be using insect repellent containing DEET on your clothes and skin, and wearing light coloured clothing so you can spot a tick easily. Also stick to paths where possible when you're out walking. How can I remove a tick safely? To remove a tick safely: Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick-removal tool. You can buy these from some pharmacies, vets and pet shops. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Slowly pull upwards, taking care not to squeeze or crush the tick. Dispose of it when you have removed it. Clean the bite with antiseptic or soap and water. The chance of getting ill is low. You do not need to do anything else unless you notice a rash or become unwell. If either of these happen, make sure to see a GP so you can get treatment as soon a possible. Taylor says the experience has changed the way she thinks about outdoor safety. She now checks all her children thoroughly after time outside and keeps tick repellent in her bag at all times. 'Parents need to know about this,' she said. 'Check their heads, their hairlines, behind their ears, waistbands, even their socks. "Ticks can hide anywhere and the earlier you catch it, the better.'

NHS list of 14 different insect bites, their symptoms and how to treat them
NHS list of 14 different insect bites, their symptoms and how to treat them

Wales Online

time20-05-2025

  • Wales Online

NHS list of 14 different insect bites, their symptoms and how to treat them

NHS list of 14 different insect bites, their symptoms and how to treat them As the UK basks in warm weather, Brits are spending more time outside. The NHS has now shared a list of some of the insect bites you could have The NHS has released a comprehensive list of the insect bites you could potentially suffer as temperatures rise across the UK. The joys of summer often see millions of Brits flocking outdoors to bask in the sunshine, but this also means increased exposure to nature. Whether you're strolling through a park or simply sunning yourself in your back garden, it's easy to fall victim to bothersome insect bites. If you do get bitten, the symptoms can range from mildly irritating to life-threatening in extreme cases. ‌ Most commonly, a bite will result in swelling, a red rash and itching. However, thanks to the NHS's latest list, you can now identify exactly what type of bite you have, which insect is responsible, and how to treat it. Stay informed on the latest health news by signing up to our newsletter here ‌ It's crucial to remember that most insect bites and stings are not serious and will improve within a few hours or days. However, they can occasionally lead to infection, trigger severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), or transmit serious illnesses such as Lyme disease and malaria. Identifying what bit or stung you can be tricky if you didn't see the incident occur. But don't fret if you're unsure – the treatment for most bites and stings is similar. 1. Wasp and hornet stings A wasp or hornet sting typically causes an immediate sharp pain. This may then develop into a swollen red mark on your skin, which can persist for several hours and may be painful and itchy. Article continues below Sometimes, the area around the sting can be painful, red and swollen for up to a week. This is a minor allergic reaction, which is usually not a cause for concern. A few individuals may experience a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), leading to breathing difficulties, dizziness and a swollen face or mouth. If you have these symptoms, immediately dial 999 for an ambulance. 2. Bee stings A bee sting feels similar to a wasp sting, but the sting will often remain in the wound. It should be removed as soon as possible to prevent any more venom from being released. ‌ Scrape the sting out sideways with something hard-edged, such as a bank card, or use your fingernails if nothing else is available. Avoid pinching the sting with your fingers or tweezers as this may spread the venom. The sting can cause pain, redness and swelling for several hours. As with wasp stings, some people may have a mild allergic reaction that lasts up to a week. Severe allergic reactions can also occur occasionally, causing breathing difficulties, dizziness and a swollen face or mouth. Dial 999 for an ambulance immediately if you have these symptoms. ‌ 3. Mosquito bites Mosquito bites often result in small red lumps on your skin. These are typically very itchy. Some people may also develop fluid-filled blisters. While mosquitoes don't cause significant harm in the UK, they can spread serious illnesses such as malaria in some parts of the world. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience concerning symptoms like a high temperature, chills, headaches, and nausea following a mosquito bite abroad. ‌ 4. Tick bites Tick bites often go unnoticed as they are typically painless. Be aware of tick bite symptoms such as: a small red lump on the skin swelling itchiness blistering bruising In the UK, ticks can carry Lyme disease, a serious infection. Consult your GP if you notice symptoms like a "bull's-eye on a dartboard" rash or fever. ‌ If a tick has bitten you and remains attached to your skin, remove it promptly to lower the risk of diseases like Lyme disease. For tick removal: Use a pair of tweezers that will not squash the tick (such as fine-tipped tweezers) or a tick removal tool (available from pet shops or vets). Grip the tick as close to the skin as possible to ensure the tick's mouth isn't left in the skin. Pull steadily away from the skin without crushing the tick. Wash your skin with water and soap afterwards, then apply an antiseptic cream to the skin around the bite. ‌ Follow the manufacturer's guidelines when using a tick removal tool. Avoid using a lit cigarette end, a match head, or substances like alcohol or petroleum jelly to extract the tick. 5. Horsefly bites Horsefly bites can be extremely painful, with the affected skin turning red and swollen. Additional symptoms may include: a larger red, raised rash (called hives or urticaria) dizziness weakness wheezing part of your body becoming puffy and swollen ‌ Horsefly bites may take time to heal and are prone to infection. Visit your GP if signs of infection appear, such as pus or increasing pain, redness, and swelling. 6. Midge or gnat bites Midge and gnat bites usually resemble mosquito bites, causing small, red, painful, and very itchy lumps, sometimes with significant swelling. Blistering may occur in some cases. 7. Bedbug bites Bedbug bites typically appear on the face, neck, hands or arms. They're usually found in straight lines across the skin. ‌ The bites aren't generally painful, and if you've not been bitten by bedbugs before, you may not exhibit any symptoms. If you have been bitten before, you may develop itchy red bumps that can persist for several days. 8. Mite bites Mite bites result in very itchy red lumps on the skin and can sometimes also cause blisters. Mites usually bite uncovered skin, but you may be bitten on your tummy and thighs if your pet has mites and has been sitting on your lap. Some mites burrow into the skin and cause a condition called scabies. ‌ 9. Flea bites Flea bites can cause small, itchy red lumps that are sometimes grouped in lines or clusters. Blisters may also occasionally develop. Fleas from cats and dogs often bite below the knee, commonly around the ankles. You may also get flea bites on your forearms if you've been stroking or holding your pet. 10. Spider bites Bites from spiders in the UK are uncommon, but some native spiders – such as the false widow spider – are capable of giving a nasty bite. Spider bites leave small puncture marks on the skin, which can be painful and cause redness and swelling. ‌ Some spiders bites can cause you to feel or be sick, sweating and dizziness. Bites can also become infected or cause a severe allergic reaction in rare cases. Get medical help immediately if you have any severe or worrying symptoms after a spider bite. 11. Ant stings and bites The most common ant in the UK, the black garden variety, does not sting or bite, but red ants, wood ants and flying ants sometimes do. Ant bites and stings are generally harmless, although you'll probably feel a nip and a pale pink mark may develop on your skin. ‌ Sometimes the bitten area may be painful, itchy and swollen. 12. Ladybird bites All ladybirds can bite, but a type called the harlequin ladybird found throughout much of the UK is more aggressive and tends to bite more often. The harlequin ladybird can be red or orange with multiple spots. Look out for a white spot on its head – other ladybirds do not have these patches. Ladybird bites can be painful, but are not usually anything to worry about. ‌ 13. Flower bug bites Flower bugs are common insects that feed on aphids and mites. You can identify the common flower bug by its tiny oval body, reflective wings and orange-brown legs. Flower bugs bites can be painful and very itchy, and are often slow to heal. 14. Caterpillar hairs The caterpillars of the oak processionary moth are a real pest. ‌ In late spring and summer, the caterpillars have thousands of tiny hairs that can cause itchy rashes, eye problems and sore throats – and very occasionally breathing difficulties. If you encounter them, or notice one of their white silken nests, report it to the Forestry Commission or your local council. If an oak processionary moth caterpillar lands on your skin: Use tweezers or a pen to remove it. Try not to disturb it (for example, by brushing it with your hands) as it will then release more hairs. Rinse your skin with running water, allow it to air dry and then use sticky tape to strip off any leftover hairs. Use calamine, ice packs or a pharmacy remedy containing 3.5% ammonia to relieve the itch. Remove all contaminated clothes and wash at as a high a temperature as the fabric allows. Avoid towelling yourself dry after rinsing or applying creams that contain antihistamines. ‌ What to do if you've been bitten or stung To treat an insect bite or sting: remove the sting or tick if it's still in the skin wash the affected area with soap and water apply a cold compress (such as a flannel or cloth cooled with cold water) or an ice pack to any swelling for at least 10 minutes raise or elevate the affected area if possible, as this can help reduce swelling avoid scratching the area, to reduce the risk of infection avoid traditional home remedies, such as vinegar and bicarbonate of soda, as they're unlikely to help The discomfort, swelling and itchiness can sometimes persist for a few days. Consult your pharmacist about remedies that can assist, such as painkillers, creams for itching and antihistamines. ‌ Easing the symptoms of an insect bite or sting If you have bothersome symptoms following an insect bite or sting, these treatments may be beneficial: For pain or discomfort – take over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (children under 16 years of age shouldn't be given aspirin). For itching – ask your pharmacist about suitable treatments, including crotamiton cream or lotion, hydrocortisone cream or ointment and antihistamine tablets. For swelling – try regularly applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area, or ask your pharmacist about treatments such as antihistamine tablets. Consult your GP if these treatments prove ineffective. They may prescribe stronger medications like steroid tablets. ‌ When to seek medical advice Contact your GP or dial 111 for guidance if: you're worried about a bite or sting your symptoms do not start to improve within a few days or are getting worse you've been stung or bitten in your mouth or throat, or near your eyes a large area (around 10cm or more patch of skin) around the bite becomes red and swollen you have symptoms of a wound infection, such as pus or increasing pain, swelling or redness you have symptoms of a more widespread infection, such as a high temperature, swollen glands and other flu-like symptoms When to seek emergency medical assistance Call 999 for an ambulance straight away if you or someone else exhibits symptoms of a severe reaction, such as: ‌ wheezing or difficulty breathing a swollen face, mouth or throat feeling sick or being sick a fast heart rate dizziness or feeling faint difficulty swallowing loss of consciousness Emergency treatment in hospital is required in these instances. Preventing insect bites and stings There are some straightforward precautions you can adopt to minimise your risk of being bitten or stung by insects. For instance, you should: Article continues below remain calm and move away slowly if you encounter wasps, hornets or bees – don't wave your arms around or swat at them cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeves and trousers wear shoes when outdoors apply insect repellent to exposed skin – repellents that contain 50% DEET (diethyltoluamide) are most effective avoid using products with strong perfumes, such as soaps, shampoos and deodorants – these can attract insects be careful around flowering plants, rubbish, compost, stagnant water, and in outdoor areas where food is served You might need to take additional precautions if you're travelling to a region where there's a risk of serious illnesses. For example, you may be advised to take antimalarial tablets to help prevent malaria.

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