Giant tropical ticks discovered in Germany – DW – 08/15/2018

German researchers have made a concerning discovery in the country – several tropical ticks have been found, raising worries about their presence. The University of Hohenheim and the Institute for Microbiology of the German Federal Armed Forces in Munich announced that a total of seven specimens of the genus Hyalomma were found in Lower Saxony and Hesse this year. This is a significant increase from the two tropical ticks that were previously found in Germany in 2015 and 2017.

The researchers are concerned that these tropical ticks may establish themselves in Germany as temperatures continue to rise. The presence of these ticks has been attributed to the hot and dry summer in Germany, as they prefer lower humidity levels than the ticks typically found in the country. This raises concerns about the potential impact of these tropical ticks on public health and the environment.

The Hyalomma ticks found in Germany can grow up to two centimeters in length, making them substantially larger than the common wood tick (Ixodes ricinus) found in the country. They can be identified by their size and striped legs, making them stand out from other tick species. These ticks were primarily found on farm animals, particularly horses, as horse owners often come into close contact with their animals during grooming.

One of the specimens of the Hyalomma ticks contained a dangerous bacterium, a known pathogen of tick-borne fever. Additionally, these tropical ticks can also carry Crimean Congo fever, a disease that has not yet been reported in Germany. The species of Hyalomma ticks found in Germany this year belong to Hyalomma marginatum and Hyalomma rufipes, and it is believed that they were introduced via migratory birds.

Experts have warned the public to expect an increase in tick bite diseases this year due to favorable breeding conditions caused by a mild winter, warm spring, and hot summer. The best preventative measures against ticks include wearing appropriate clothing and using tick repellents to reduce the risk of tick bites.

The discovery of tropical ticks in Germany highlights the importance of monitoring and addressing the spread of invasive species that can have significant impacts on public health and ecosystems. Continued research and surveillance are essential to understand the potential risks posed by these tropical ticks and to develop effective strategies to mitigate their impact.