What are ticks?

Ticks are arthropods that parasitise a large number of wild animals. They also parasitise domestic animals and can occasionally bite humans. All ticks feed on blood. They have several life stages and can be as small as a pinhead (larvae) or as large as a bean (females engorged with blood).

Where can ticks be found?

Ticks are found on the ground, usually hidden in grass or shrubs. Different species have different habitat preferences: some are common in wooded areas, others prefer open landscapes, scrubland, or even dry shrubs, and some have adapted to living inside the burrows of their hosts or in man-made structures such as kennels.

Although most tick species are active during warm months — from spring to autumn — some are also active in winter. Very low temperatures reduce their activity, and heavy frost significantly reduces their populations.

Some ticks may be infected with various pathogens transmitted during blood-feeding, along with their saliva. The best way to prevent these diseases is to avoid tick bites by following these recommendations:

Most tick-borne diseases require the parasite to attach and feed for several hours before infection oc-curs, so it is essential to remove it as soon as possible, preferably by a healthcare professional.

In summer, stings are very frequent, especially at dusk and at night. In very sensitive individuals, it is advisable to use natural repellents in stick or lotion form, plug-in insecticide diffusers in bedrooms, and mosquito nets on doors and windows.
Stings from bees, wasps, mosquitoes, and spiders are not uncommon at this time of year. It is advisable to wear clothing in subdued colours, avoid walking through damp areas, avoid using strong perfumes, wear long trousers and long-sleeved shirts in areas likely to have insects, and check bed linen before going to sleep (especially in children’s cots and beds).

The pine processionary caterpillar inhabits pine trees and mulberry trees. It is easily recognisable by the silk bags visible in pine forests. Dark orange in colour, these caterpillars move in single file to mimic branches and protect themselves from birds.

The caterpillars do not sting directly; they are only toxic on contact. Their bodies are covered in hairs that, upon contact with skin, inject a type of venom. These small urticating hairs detach easily and can be carried by the wind, so an allergic reaction can occur simply by walking through an infested pine forest.

The main allergic reactions include rashes, local swelling, hives, and redness causing itching and irritation. This reaction appears immediately on contact and usually disappears within one or two days. Applying ice or cold water, and taking an antihistamine or anti-inflammatory, is recommended.

In more severe cases — skin lesions (wheals), or swelling of the neck or face — medical attention should be sought.

Jellyfish are difficult to detect as most are transparent. Pay attention to information provided by authorities and lifeguards about their presence. Some beaches use a specific flag, in addition to the traditional red, yellow, and green flags, to indicate jellyfish risk.

On contact, jellyfish release stinging cells containing venom, which typically cause mild but very uncomfortable effects: immediate pain and burning, followed by swelling, redness, and bleeding at the sting site.