Ticks while Hiking in Spain

Ticks with Deadly Virus in Spain

In recent years, more ticks in Spain have been discovered that are infected with the Crimean-Congo virus, which causes a terrible disease. The Hyalomma tick carries this virus, which is fatal for 30 to 50 percent of people. This virus appears to have come from Morocco and is now troubling Europe.

The first symptoms of Crimean-Congo fever are ordinary flu-like symptoms with nosebleeds, but after a few days, the liver begins to swell, and subcutaneous bleeding occurs. Subsequently, vital organs may cease to function, and it is possible to die from this disease. There is no treatment for the disease.

Fièvre Boutonneuse Commonly Occurs in Spain

The tick species Rhipicephalus is also prevalent in Spain and transmits the disease Fièvre Boutonneuse. These ticks live in green areas and in warm and humid places, so they can also survive indoors. They are also commonly found on rodents, antelopes, livestock, or pets. After being bitten by this tick, you may become infected with the virus characterized by a sore with a black crust at the site of the bite. At the same location, a red discoloration of the skin can occur. Complaints such as headaches, muscle pain, and joint pain often occur, usually accompanied by reduced blood pressure and sometimes with neurological abnormalities and disruption of kidney function. After about five to seven days, fever sets in, lasting several days to two weeks. After five days, red spots appear all over the body. The disease is treated with a course of antibiotics. Vaccination against this disease is not possible.