Alarm Over Rising Tick Population in Spain: What Expats Need to Know

In recent days, a growing concern has emerged in Spain due to the significant increase in the population of a specific species of tick, Hyalomma lusitanicum. This surge has prompted warnings from health experts and local authorities, particularly in the regions of Catalonia and Tarragona.

Increased Presence in Catalonia and Tarragona

As of the latest reports, these ticks have been identified in 101 municipalities across Spain, with a notable concentration in the metropolitan area of Barcelona and the demarcation of Tarragona. Studies conducted in 2023 and 2024 have detected their presence in 70 municipalities in these areas, adding to the 31 already identified in 2022.

Health Concerns and Official Response

Despite the alarm, Olga Pané, the Health Counselor of the Generalitat de Catalunya, has reassured the public that these ticks do not pose a significant public health risk. In a statement to Catalunya Ràdio, Pané encouraged people to continue their outdoor activities, emphasizing that tick bites are rare and usually do not transmit diseases. However, she acknowledged the increased presence of these ticks and the ongoing monitoring by the Department of Natural Environment, local municipalities, and provincial councils.

Potential Health Risks

While tick bites are generally painless and often result in only minor skin lesions, some ticks can be infected with pathogens that can transmit serious diseases. These include encephalitis, Mediterranean spotted fever, Lyme disease, relapsing fever, tularemia, babesiosis, and Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever.

Prevention and Action

Experts stress that the best way to prevent tick-borne diseases is to avoid tick bites altogether. Here are some key steps to take:

• Avoid High-Risk Areas: Be cautious when walking in wooded or bushy areas where ticks are more common.
• Wear Protective Clothing: Use long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and closed shoes to minimize exposed skin.
• Use Insect Repellents: Apply insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin and clothing.
• Conduct Regular Checks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check your body for ticks, especially in areas like the armpits, groin, and scalp.

What to Do If Bitten

If you are bitten by a tick, it is crucial to remove it as soon as possible. Here’s how:

• Prompt Removal: The sooner the tick is removed, the lower the risk of disease transmission. Most tick-borne diseases require the tick to be attached and feeding for several hours before infection can occur.
• Professional Assistance: Ideally, have a healthcare professional remove the tick. If this is not possible, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid using home remedies like petroleum jelly or a hot match.

If you experience symptoms such as fever, skin rash, or other discomforts in the month following a tick bite, it is essential to visit your nearest health center and inform them of the incident.

As the situation continues to be monitored, expats and locals alike are advised to remain vigilant and take preventive measures to ensure their safety while enjoying the outdoors in Spain.