Simple but effective measures to protect against ticks

Dr. Kaya reminded that CCHF can be transmitted through the bite of infected ticks and emphasized that personal precautions are the foundation of protection.

“To protect against ticks, light-colored, long-sleeved clothing should be preferred. Pant legs should be tucked into socks. People who will be in wooded or brushy areas should wear long pants, boots, and hats,” said Dr. Kaya, recommending regular checks of skin folds, especially the groin, armpits, and behind the knees.

Stating that individuals involved in agriculture and livestock in high-risk areas should be more careful, Dr. Kaya said, “After activities such as nature walks or camping, the bodies of both individuals and children should be examined in detail. Those involved in livestock should have animal shelters sprayed with pesticides at regular intervals.”

WHAT IS CCHF AND HOW IS IT TRANSMITTED?

Dr. Çınla Nişli Kaya stated that CCHF is a serious infectious disease transmitted by ticks, characterized by fever, muscle aches, and bleeding disorders, and added:

“The disease can be transmitted through the attachment of an infected tick to the skin, contact with the blood, tissues, or body fluids of infected animals, or exposure to the blood or body fluids of individuals carrying the disease. It poses a significant risk, especially for healthcare workers,” she explained.

HOW SHOULD A TICK ATTACHED TO THE BODY BE REMOVED?

Addressing common misconceptions about tick removal, Dr. Kaya stated the following:

“Methods such as pouring chemicals on the tick, pressing a cigarette to it, or burning it should absolutely not be applied. The tick should be removed using appropriate tweezers from the point closest to the skin, pulling it straight out without twisting. If the person cannot do this themselves, they must apply to the nearest healthcare facility.”

Stating that hands and the area where the tick was attached should be cleaned with soap and plenty of water after removal, Dr. Kaya added, “If symptoms such as fever, fatigue, or muscle aches are seen within 10 days after the tick is removed, a doctor should be consulted immediately.”

WITH WHICH SYMPTOMS SHOULD A PHYSICIAN BE CONSULTED?

Expressing that CCHF shows some early symptoms, Dr. Çınla Nişli Kaya issued the following warnings:

“Symptoms such as high fever, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, along with complaints like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, bruising on the skin, and nose and gum bleeding can be harbingers of CCHF. When these symptoms are observed, it is vital to apply to a healthcare institution without delay.”

Stating that CCHF can be detected early and brought under control, Dr. Kaya concluded her words as follows:

“The strongest defense against the disease is the simple but determined precautions taken to avoid contracting it in the first place. Remember; the first step to protecting your health is to take risks seriously.”