Over 500 residents in Altai Territory have suffered tick bites within the last seven days.
Early Start to Tick Season in Biysk: What You Need to Know
Spring is here, and along with it comes the pesky guests - ticks! According to the latest reports from Rospotrebnadzor, the tick season in the Altai region started a week earlier this year, with a surge of cases registered in Biysk from April 24 to 30.
This year, the tick season commenced around mid-March, marking a significant early kickoff compared to the previous year. As the temperatures rise and outdoor activities increase, it's essential to be aware of the increased concern for ticks and the health risks associated with them.
Since the start of the season, nearly 1450 people have been affected by ticks in the Altai region, with over 370 cases reported in Biysk alone. The first recorded case of tick bite was on March 21.
It's important to note that ticks can harbor potentially harmful pathogens, including the causative agent of Lyme disease, found in 16% of cases in the Altai region. Additionally, the tick-borne encephalitis virus was detected in 6.3% of cases.
As the activity and number of ticks surge, it is predicted that the peak of their activity will occur in May. However, the danger posed by ticks will persist throughout the warm season. To protect yourself, it's crucial to be informed and take precautions.
Biysk: Battleground Against Ticks
Residents of Biysk are currently experiencing a tick invasion. In particular, areas with tall grasses, forests, parks, and suburban gardens should be avoided, as ticks are most commonly found in these zones.
Preparing for the Battle
To minimize the risks, follow these essential precautions:
- Dress Appropriately: Wear light-colored long sleeves and pants, tuck your pants into your socks, and opt for high-quality, protective gear treated with permethrin.
- Use Repellents: Apply DEET or picaridin to your skin and clothes for added protection.
- Mind Your Steps: Stick to cleared trails and avoid brushing against vegetation.
- Vaccination: Consider receiving the Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) vaccine, which is recommended for both residents and visitors of the Altai region. Check the schedule at the Biysk Central Hospital or nearby clinics.
After Exposure
In case of a tick bite, immediately remove the tick near the skin with fine-tipped tweezers and place it in a sealed container for analysis at the Altai Anti-Plague Station. Seek medical attention if a rash, fever, or fatigue arises within 30 days.
Local Resources
For tick testing, visit the Altai Anti-Plague Station in Barnaul. In case of an emergency, contact the Biysk Emergency Hospital (+7 3854 123-456).
Community Efforts
Local authorities are distributing informational brochures in schools and public centers, while also implementing targeted acaricide spraying in high-risk zones. Stay updated on real-time alerts by checking the Biysk City Administration’s official website.
Stay vigilant, be prepared, and enjoy the outdoors responsibly this season! 🌿🦎🌞️🩺
- A substantial number of tick cases have been reported in Biysk, making it a battleground against these pests, especially in areas with tall grasses, forests, parks, and suburban gardens.
- To minimize the risks of tick encounters, It's advisable to dress in light-colored long sleeves and pants, tuck the pants into socks, and use protective gear treated with permethrin.
- Using DEET or picaridin repellents on skin and clothes can provide added protection against ticks.
- When venturing into the outdoors, it's best to stick to cleared trails and avoid brushing against vegetation.
- For an extra layer of protection, consider receiving the Tick-borne Encephalitis (TBE) vaccine, especially if you're a resident or visitor of the Altai region.
- In case of a tick bite, immediately remove the tick near the skin using fine-tipped tweezers, and keep it in a sealed container for analysis at the Altai Anti-Plague Station.
- If symptoms such as a rash, fever, or fatigue appear within 30 days of the tick bite, seek medical attention immediately.
- Local resources like the Altai Anti-Plague Station and the Biysk Emergency Hospital are available for tick testing and emergencies.
- To stay updated on real-time alerts and information, check the Biysk City Administration’s official website, read informational brochures in schools and public centers, and be mindful of the heightened concern for ticks and associated health risks, such as those related to chronic diseases, respiratory conditions, eye-health, hearing, mental health, skin care, nutrition, and neurological disorders.
