A Kerry woman contracted Lyme disease after being bitten by a tick while visiting beaches in Spain, marking a rare instance of beach-related tick bites.
Doctors indicated that ticks, typically found in woodlands and grasslands, may be adapting to beach environments, raising concerns about potential increases in tick bites in such areas.
Post-bite, the woman exhibited symptoms like fatigue, body aches, headaches, and a rash, necessitating treatment with intravenous antibiotics following a positive Lyme disease blood test.
The HSE has issued an alert on tick awareness and recommends protective measures for individuals who spend time outdoors. The HSE organises the annual tick awareness week in May at the start fo the tourist season
