There are currently ideal conditions for the parasites lurking in the grass, because ticks love wet and cold weather. About 30 percent of them transmit so-called Borrelia bacteria – sometimes with dramatic consequences for us humans.
Since September 2011, nothing has been the same in the life of Bettina Gartlehner from Linz. She came to the hospital with flank pain and was sent home without a clear diagnosis. But the pain did not improve, “it was attributed to my psyche,” said the 38-year-old. Only a neurologist then discovered the Borrelia bacteria in her spinal fluid.
keep a close eye on symptoms
About 30 percent of ticks carry these pathogens, which are responsible for Lyme disease. A reddish rash usually develops around the tick bite, but headache and fever may also occur. “In this case, you should see a doctor immediately,” advises Gartlehner, who suffers from a particularly severe form that did not appear until months after the bite.
Not being able to work after a tick bite
The trained shop assistant can no longer do her job – the pain is too much. This also makes everyday life difficult for the mother of two: “You can only brush your teeth with electricity, and I need help grating cheese. And I am particularly susceptible to infections, often sick.”
Remove leeches quickly
To spare others a similar agony, she is involved in the Lyme disease self-help group and wants to raise awareness of the disease. Because unlike the disease TBE, the vaccination does not protect against the Borrelia bacteria. She advises, “Search the body after every time outdoors and remove ticks immediately.”
Expert tips
Stephan Weigl from the Linz Biology Center also recommends this. “The pathogens are in the tick’s saliva and are excreted more when it is irritated. This is exactly what happens when the tick is rubbed with oil or glue,” says the biologist. His tip: grab the animal close to the skin and pull it straight out. Ideally with suitable tweezers, but if necessary also with your fingernails if you have nothing else to hand.
Ideal drawing weather
At this time, the leeches find ideal conditions. We have had a mild winter and ticks like damp weather. Sitting in the grass, they stretch their legs and reach for their prey.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
