It doesn't matter how, but it must be removed!

Ticks are small, but not harmless: they can transmit diseases such as TBE or Lyme disease. At the BEA, we will be addressing this topic and spoke to Werner Tischhauser, Vice President of the Swiss Tick League, about prevention, protective measures and the correct way to deal with ticks.

Text by Franziska Iff & Emily Lim

At this year's BEA, we are focussing on a small but not to be underestimated topic: ticks. These tiny arachnids can transmit dangerous diseases - all the more reason to learn about correct behaviour outdoors. Werner Tischhauser, Vice President of the Swiss Tick League, is someone who has been intensively involved with ticks for years.

Werner Tischhauser changed his career direction around twelve years ago. He came to applied tick research at the ZHAW in Wädenswil via a job search - and stayed. Today, he is committed to ensuring that the population is aware of the risks and protection options.

Prevention is everything

Tischhauser particularly emphasises the importance of prevention. The TBE vaccination, which provides reliable protection against the tick-borne tick-borne encephalitis virus, plays a central role in this. "The vaccination completely eliminates the risk of this serious viral infection," explains Tischhauser.

TBE (tick-borne encephalitis) is a viral infection transmitted by ticks that can attack the nervous system.

⚡ Transmission:
Immediately upon bite - no time delay.

💉 Protection:
Only possible through vaccination. Especially recommended in risk areas.

🗺️ Risk areas:
In Switzerland, all cantons with the exception of the canton of Ticino are considered risk areas.

🚿 Important:
Quick removal does not help here - vaccination is crucial.

However, simple everyday behaviour can also help: long, light-coloured clothing, which gives ticks less opportunity to search the skin, and the use of tick sprays. If you are out and about - whether hiking, walking or in the garden - you should also carry a pair of splinter tweezers and check yourself regularly.

Act correctly - spotting ticks early on the move

It is worth keeping an eye on your clothing and skin while you are out hiking. Tischhauser himself always carries out a thorough check when showering in the evening. If an attached tick is removed quickly, the risk of Borrelia transmission is significantly reduced - as these bacteria are usually only transmitted after several hours.

Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne disease in Switzerland. It is caused by bacteria (borrelia).

🕒 Transmission:
Only after several hours - therefore quick removal of the tick is crucial.

🔴 Early signs:
Bull's eye - a red ring around the bite site.

💊 Treatment:
Can be treated well with antibiotics, the earlier the better.

🚫 Vaccination:
Not available. Protection only through prevention and tick check.

The situation is different with TBE viruses: Unfortunately, they enter the body as soon as you are bitten. The only thing that helps here is vaccination.

Tischhauser's tip:

"Light-coloured clothing, a pair of tweezers in your rucksack and a conscious approach to nature help enormously. Ticks don't just lurk deep in the forest - city parks or your own garden can also be risky places."

With the right knowledge and a few simple precautions, the risk of ticks can be significantly reduced. And if you - like Werner Tischhauser - go outdoors well prepared, you can enjoy nature to the full despite the little pests.