Methods of Tick Removal: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Pilch

2020

Insects

Given the high medical importance of ticks, we analyzed the most common preventive behaviors and practices adopted by medical students from Poland, Germany, and Thailand, and the level of their knowledge of ticks and tick-borne diseases. A survey consisting of 19 questions was conducted among 636 randomly selected students. The study showed that the Polish and German students preferred inspection of the body on their return home (86.9% and 63.5%, respectively) and wearing protective clothes (79.8% and 32.3%, respectively) as part of prophylaxis. The Thai students most often chose wearing protective clothes (54.7%) and preventive behavior in tick habitats (42.7%). Approximately 7% of the Polish medical students and as many as 22% of the German and Thai respondents did not use any means of prevention. Our analyses suggest that the use of preventive methods and respondents’ behaviors depend on socio-demographic factors and the level of health education. The insufficient practical implementation of tick prevention measures by the medical students suggests a need for verification of health education programs in schools as well as effective popularization and educational activities. It is also necessary to develop a public health protection strategy against the effects of tick bites.

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Tick Preventive Behaviors and Practices Adopted by Medical Students from Poland, Germany, and Thailand in Relation to Socio-Demographic Conditions and Their Knowledge of Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases

Pilch

2020

Insects

“…The most important role in rapid transmission of ticks and associated pathogens over long distances is ascribed to seasonally migrating birds (e.g., [ 205 , 206 , 207 , 208 , 209 , 210 ]). Nevertheless, it seems that animals accompanying their owners during foreign and domestic journeys or animals imported from other geographic regions may contribute considerably as well.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Importation of Ticks on Companion Animals and the Risk of Spread of Tick-Borne Diseases to Non-Endemic Regions in Europe

2020

Animals

Increased human mobility elevates the risk of exposure of companion animals travelling with their owners or imported from other regions to tick attacks. In this study, we highlight the potential role of dogs and cats taken for tourist trips or imported animals in the spread of ticks and tick-borne pathogens. The Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick, which is a vector of numerous pathogens causing diseases in animals and humans, is imported most frequently from endemic areas to many European countries. Additionally, alien tick species with high epizootic and epidemiological importance can be imported on dogs from other continents. Companion animals play an even greater role in the spread of autochthonous tick species and transmission of tick pathogens to other animals and humans. Although the veterinary and medical effects of the parasitism of ticks carried by companion animals travelling with owners or imported animals are poorly assessed, these animals seem to play a role in the rapid spread of tick-borne diseases. Development of strategies for protection of the health of companion animals in different geographic regions should take into account the potential emergence of unknown animal tick-borne diseases that can be transmitted by imported ticks.

Wilderness & Environmental Medicine

“…71 Passive methods such as application of petroleum jelly, fingernail polish, 70% isopropyl alcohol, or a hot kitchen match, 67,72 local infiltration of anesthetics, 73 and administration of oral ivermectin 74 failed to exhibit any efficacy in encouraging tick detachment. Overall, mechanical removal is largely accepted by experts, 75 and forceps removal has been endorsed by the CDC (Figure 5) 8 ; however, to date no professional organization has adopted strong practice guidelines regarding optimal tick removal techniques. 76 Recommendation.…”

Section: Tick Removalmentioning

confidence: 99%

Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Prevention and Management of Tick-Borne Illness in the United States

Ho¹,

Davis

Forrester

et al. 2021

The Wilderness Medical Society convened an expert panel to develop evidence-based guidelines for the prevention and management of tick-borne illness. Recommendations are graded based on quality of supporting evidence according to criteria put forth by the American College of Chest Physicians. The guidelines include a brief review of the clinical presentation, epidemiology, prevention, and management of tick-borne illness in the United States, with a primary focus on interventions that are appropriate for resource-limited settings.