UK Tick Warnings Rise in Peak Season as Charli xcx Video Sparks Lyme Disease Questions
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jul 2
UK Tick Warnings Rise in Peak Season as Charli xcx Video Sparks Lyme Disease Questions
1 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jul 2
Summary
Peak tick season in the UK has drawn fresh attention after Charli xcx’s Essex-shot “Wink Wink” video and celebrity sightings in long grass triggered social media questions about Lyme Disease risk.
Lyme Disease UK says ticks are not limited to forests and heathland: they have also been found in urban parks and gardens, with infected ticks recorded in every UK county.
Warmer winters are helping ticks stay active year-round, experts say, while England’s tick numbers have risen and official Lyme disease totals likely undercount cases because many are diagnosed without lab tests.
NHS guidance is to cover skin, use repellent, stick to paths, check the whole body after exposure, and remove any tick quickly with fine-tipped tweezers; seek care if a rash or flu-like symptoms follow.
Experts said people do not need to avoid nature or long grass altogether, but should stay alert because untreated Lyme disease can lead to joint, nerve and heart problems.