Ticks
There are over 70 different types of Tick in Australia, they are most prevalent on the East Coast of Australia. About 17 different types are able to bite humans
They crawl up grass or twigs and drop onto passing animals or humans, attaching themselves to the soft skin to feed. They inject a substance to stop the blood clotting. Their saliva can also be poisonous. Some people are allergic to tick bites.
More prevalent when in July to December.
Do you and your family go bush walking? Make sure you know what to do in the event of a tick bite!
First and foremost 👆🏻 anyone with a known tick allergy should visit a hospital or facility that can manage anaphylaxis for tick removal
How to remove a tick?
For those who do not have an allergy to tick bites, the tick should be sprayed with an ether-containing spray (eg Medi Freeze Tick Off) while it is still in the skin. This will kill the tick by freezing it and should then drop off within 5 minutes
Do’s:
- Check skin and clothes after being in bush
- Use DEET containing insect repellent when in long grass or bush, including on the surface of clothing
- Seek urgent medical advice if tick is still attached after using an ether-containing spray
- Wear long sleeves when spending time in the bush
Don’t:
x Use tweezers or tick removal instruments
x Use chemicals other than an ether-containing spray
x Attempt to remove the tick yourself if you have a known allergy to tick bites
Symptoms of tick paralysis include:
a rash
sore glands
walking unsteadily
not being able to tolerate bright lights
weak limbs
a paralysed face
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to tick bites include:
swollen throat
collapsing
Reference:
Therapeutic guidelines
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/tick-bites
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcimb.2019.00003/full
DISCLAIMER: This information is provided to give an overview and provide you with information that can help you understand different medical conditions and therapies, however it is not here to stop you seeking appropriate medical advise.
