EXPERTS are warning hikers about the reality of tick-borne illnesses. Bushland and long grasses are ideal environments for ticks, and left untreated, tick-borne illnesses can cause issues with cognitive impairment, eyesight, mobility, and can lead to chronic illness. Great Walks spoke to Dr Mualla McManus (above), director of the Karl McManus Foundation and infectious disease researcher about the situation.
GRW: What does the tick do to the body?
Illness can be caused by a number of different pathogens carried by ticks, including Borrelia, Ehrlichia and many other types of bacteria and viruses. These pathogens attack the human immune system causing flu-like symptoms, tiredness, muscle aches, stiff neck, cognitive impairment and sensitivity to light and sound.
GRW: How likely is it that someone will experience these symptoms after a bite?
Not…
