Local health authorities are urging residents to take precautions against tick bites.
The alert comes after three recently reported cases of tick-related anaphylaxis in hospitals within the Northern Local Health District.
Authorities say anyone who knows they are allergic to ticks should always carry an adrenaline autoinjector and have an anaphylaxis action plan.
Aside from those with severe allergies, most people won’t experience harm from tick bites.
Health authorities say the bites can occasionally lead to mammalian meat allergy and some rare bacterial illnesses.
Anyone bitten by a tick is advised to leave it in place and not to disturb it but to freeze it with a containing spray such as Medi Freeze before removing.
Permethrin-based creams like Lyclear can be applied to smaller ticks.
Both products are said to be available over the counter from pharmacies.
Hospital nurses will also remove ticks.
Cover up for tick prevention
North Coast Population and Public Health Associate Director Robin Auld said preventing tick bites and knowing how to remove ticks safely were key to prevent illness.
‘Protect yourself when outdoors by applying insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants, especially in bushland or areas with tall grass,’ Mr Auld said as part of this week’s alert.
‘Check your body for ticks after outdoor activities, particularly your scalp, underarms and groin, and avoid sitting or lying in long grass or leaf litter,’ he said.
More information on tick bite prevention, management, and recognising allergic reactions was available her: Tick bite diseases and symptoms attributed to tick bites | Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing
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