So…over the weekend I spent a couple of mornings out in the local woods and up a mountain or hill...or whatever you might want to call it. I frequent this area quite a lot so I know every path and every bush and tree very well.
What I didn’t realise was how many ticks are actually out to ‘get me’! They are everywhere!
Even though the area is not known for ticks infecting humans with Lyme Borreliosis or Lyme disease, I am very weary of the risks.
In the last two days I found two very small ticks on me...little buggers trying to feed on me. One was crawling on my knee after I returned back from my Saturday excursion and the other actually bit me on my triceps...whilst I was at work. I have no idea where I picked this one up...as I work in a warehouse and not outdoors.
Luckily I managed to pick it off with its head...not buried in my skin. I’ll have to watch that bite mark; just in case I get the characteristic inflammation.
I have keenly followed Dan Milnor’s reports on his battle with Lyme disease and am fully aware of the risks. The fact that I live and work in Germany now fills me with some comfort, knowing the health service here is very capable of treating the onset of such bacterial infection. Even though it is very difficult to diagnose the actual condition, the doctors and scientists do have a lot of experience.
Research has shown that there has been a continuous spread of infecting ticks from all over the world and it is mainly due to winters not being cold enough. As the days of winter temperatures of -15 to -20 degrees Celsius are a thing of the past...so is the death of ticks.
I shall continue to be wearing long trousers, long sleeve shirts and a hat/cap when I venture out...along with insect repellant...the strong stuff!
So...whenever you venture out with your cameras...especially in ‘green’ areas...dress up and lube up in repellant!
And of course when you return...check yourself for bites and your clothing, too. Those buggers like to wait for when you wear that jacket next time.
Stay safe, stay low and move fast...and don’t forget to take care of each other.
