| Abstrakt: |
New tick species are appearing in the UK, which can transmit diseases to animals and humans. These new species pose a greater threat because they can carry and transmit diseases that were previously uncommon or absent in the UK. Factors such as climate change, increased international animal movements, and changes in land use contribute to the increasing geographical range of these ticks. The Hyalomma tick, usually found in Mediterranean and Balkan countries, Africa, India, Iran, and Pakistan, is particularly notable among the emerging tick species in the UK. These ticks can spread a variety of diseases, including equine diseases and a serious viral disease called Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever (CCHF) that can infect humans. The risk of new tick species establishing themselves in the UK depends on factors such as the environment, the availability of animal species to feed on, and the effectiveness of disease spread. Ongoing monitoring is crucial as tick distribution in the UK is shifting, and tick numbers are increasing. The Tick Surveillance Scheme (TSS) collects data on tick species found on horses in the UK, and awareness of the risks of equine piroplasmosis and Hyalomma ticks is necessary. While new tick species may not be able to overwinter and become fully established in the UK at present, the situation must be continuously reviewed. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) collaborates with equine industry stakeholders to prevent equine diseases and promote high welfare standards. Equine [Extracted from the article] |
