Are There Ticks in Istanbul and Mediterranean? Do They Carry Crimean-Congo Virus?
As temperatures rise, deaths from tick bites in some cities have caused concern, and residents in some parts of the country are also worried about ticks. With the approach of Eid al-Adha, the potential danger of ticks in major cities comes to mind. So, are there ticks in many regions? Are they deadly?
Cases of Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) have started appearing in emergency rooms. The increase in tick cases in Anatolia raises the question of whether a similar situation exists in Istanbul as well as some other regions.
While experts say that ticks in Istanbul do not carry the disease, the fight against both ticks and mosquitoes started two months earlier than usual.
What to Do When Encountering a Tick?
Experts recommend taking precautions if a tick is found on the body. The disease can start with complaints such as fever, dizziness, and muscle pain, potentially leading to death. Experts advise being cautious in areas where there is a risk of ticks.
In an interview an “Infectious Disease Specialist” emphasized that ticks should be removed in a hospital setting. The same person noted, “If we try to remove it ourselves, we may not be able to remove it completely. If it breaks apart, it could cause the virus to increase in the body”, adding that ticks could cling to any exposed area, suggesting protective measures like wearing pants.
