Exotic ticks and tick-borne diseases: the need to remain vigilant

Abstract

Ticks are notorious vectors of numerous infectious (bacterial, protozoal and viral) diseases to animals and humans. Many of the tick-borne diseases (TBDs) can cause significant economic consequences and are challenging to control. Research advances in parasitology and recent changes in the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) have changed views of how exotic tick species and TBDs can be introduced and established in the UK. However, the impact of the PETS tick treatment rule change is still unclear and requires intensive research. In the meantime, veterinary practitioners must remain vigilant and prepared. Public awareness campaigns have already been implemented, however, these need to be expanded to educating the public about the potential risks of exotic TBDs and pre-emptive measures to mitigate these risks. Pet owners' education and fostering the concept of ‘one health’ are of prime importance. Tick treatment of companion animals entering the UK, although not obligatory, is still necessary to protect travelling and resident pets.

Investigation and Prevalence of Hard Ticks Infestation in Ruminant Farm Animals in the United Kingdom

“…Ticks are considered to be the most important vector of disease-causing pathogens in domestic and wild animals [32,33]. Many researchers [7,20,34] have identified the prevalence of tick infestation in companion animals in the UK but the data from livestock is more limited.…”