A warning has been issued by experts as cases of a rare disease increase across the UK.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can be spread to humans by infected ticks. Caused by a spiral-shaped bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi, the disease is usually easier to treat if caught early. In some cases, ticks can transmit multiple infections through a single bite, with more severe symptoms often caused in these situations.
On average, around 5 per cent of ticks in Scotland are infected with Borrelia, with the number of cases of Lyme disease in humans increasing over the last decade, according to tiscotland.org.
Ticks are found throughout the UK and other parts of Europe and North America, with a higher number in the Scottish Highlands.
The beasties, that can be as tiny as a poppy seed or as large as a baked bean, can be found anywhere with deep or overgrown plants where they have access to animals to feed on. The insects are common in woodland and moorland areas and can also be found in places such as gardens and parks, reports the Echo.
When animals or humans brush by a tick, the insect then transfer onto them, finding a warm spot to embed itself into.
They inject a local anaesthetic, meaning the bite is usually painless, before attaching themselves to the hairline, axillae, or groin area of the body.
Many do not even notice they have been bitten.
If a person has become infected, a circular or oval shaped rash will appear around the tick bite. This rash can be an early symptom of Lyme disease in some.
The rash often appear between one and four weeks post infection. However, it can take up to three months for the rash to appear after a bite. The rash can last several weeks.
Other symptoms may include feeling hot and shivery, a headache, muscle and joint pain, tiredness and loss of energy.
Some cases can result in more serious symptoms that can take months or even years to appear. These severe symptoms are more likely if treatment is delayed and may include joint pain, swelling, nerve problems, memory loss or even heart issues.
Some people with Lyme disease develop more severe symptoms months or years later and this is more likely if treatment is delayed. These more severe symptoms can include joint pain and swelling, nerve problems, memory problems, and heart problems.
Ahead of Lyme Disease Awareness Month in May, the charity Lyme Disease UK is urging people to be vigilant. It advises people to:
Take effective tick repellent on outdoor trips and a tick removal tool.
Permethrin-treated outdoor clothing should also be considered for high-risk activities and occupations.
Avoid walking through long grass and stick to pathways wherever possible.
Wear light-coloured clothing, as this will make it easier to spot ticks and brush them off.
Wear long sleeves and tuck trousers into socks.
Shower and carry out a thorough tick check on yourself, children, and pets when you get home.
Remember that ticks can be as small as poppy seeds, so careful checking is key. Pay special attention to the hairline and behind the ears of young children.
Talk to your vet about tick prevention products for pets and check them daily for ticks.
Charity experts also said: "Ticks should be removed using a tick removal tool, or a pair of very fine-tipped tweezers, making sure that all parts of the tick are removed. A tick remover should be an essential part of any first aid kit."
