Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) is the most prominent tick-borne disease in Turkey, but ticks transmit a variety of other infections to humans. These include Lyme disease, Q fever, tick-borne encephalitis, Mediterranean spotted fever, monocytic ehrlichiosis, granulocytic ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis.
Prof. Dr. Adem Keskin, Head of the Biology Department at Tokat Gaziosmanpaşa University (TOGÜ) Faculty of Arts and Sciences, has researched ticks for approximately twenty years claim:2. Keskin stated that field data does not show an extraordinary increase in tick populations currently, though increases in both populations and tick-borne diseases can occur during certain periods due to climate change, seasonal differences, and environmental factors.
The distribution of tick species can be affected by globalization, international trade, and the intercontinental movement of migratory birds. Additionally, reproductive cycles involve female ticks dropping to the ground to lay eggs in suitable environments after completing blood feeding claim:10.
Lyme disease and prevention
Lyme disease, an infection caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is also present in the country. Prof. Dr. Adem Keskin noted that Lyme disease can be seen in the country from time to time, similar to its occurrence globally.
Keskin advised removing the tick appropriately if health services are not available in rural areas.
To reduce risk, Keskin advised individuals going outdoors to use appropriate tick repellents and wear light-colored, body-covering clothing. He also stated that people should check their bodies for ticks upon returning. Following the removal of a tick, individuals should monitor themselves for a few days for symptoms such as fever, fatigue, or muscle pain.
Reducing the density of ticks in agricultural production areas may involve using pastures for their intended purposes and avoiding the grazing of animals in agricultural areas claim:9.
