In a recent study conducted by researchers and students from the University of Zielona Góra, it was found that one in four ticks in the city is infected with Borrelia, the bacterium responsible for Lyme disease.
The researchers used large white flags to sweep through various locations across the city, including parks, squares, and green areas near schools. They found that 25% of the ticks collected were carriers of Borrelia.
Types of Ticks and Their Risks
Two common tick species, Ixodes ricinus (the common tick) and Ixodes scapularis (the meadow tick), inhabit Zielona Góra. Of these, Ixodes ricinus poses the greatest risk to humans due to its tendency to bite and transmit diseases.
Dr. Olaf Ciebiera emphasized the potential danger ticks pose, highlighting that preventive measures such as tick repellents and special collars for pets are crucial.
Dr. Renata Grochowalska pointed out the importance of precautions when encountering ticks, underscoring that awareness and protective measures can mitigate the risks associated with tick bites.