Experts are warning Ukrainians against taking antibiotics without a prescription after tick bites
The Center for Public Health urges citizens to absolutely refrain from self-treatment in the event of a tick bite.
Experts emphasize that the uncontrolled use of strong medications can seriously harm health and complicate further diagnosis.
This was emphasized in detail on television by Mykola Ganich, a spokesperson for the Public Health Center, according to a Ukrinform correspondent.
The agency representative noted that only a qualified specialist can determine the actual need for medication.
“Neither after a tick bite nor after any symptom should you prescribe antibiotics for yourself... Antibiotics are exclusively a treatment for bacterial infections. Therefore, a doctor determines the need for antibiotics, prescribes the necessary dose—which is individual for each person—and prescribes a course of treatment,” Ganich stated.
Symptoms of infection and guidelines
Seeking medical attention promptly is critically important for the successful treatment of dangerous infections. The main indicator of the onset of the disease is specific changes in the skin at the site of the bite.
He noted that after a tick bite, erythema—redness around the bite—may appear on the skin, which is a symptom of Lyme disease, and in this case, it is necessary to see a doctor who will determine the treatment plan.
A flu-like illness and a sudden fever may also develop after a tick bite—in which case, you should also see a doctor.
Vaccination specifics and current statistics
Vaccination remains an effective tool for individual protection against the most severe consequences of tick bites. Currently, the relevant vaccines are available in Ukrainian pharmacy chains, although they are not included in the national immunization schedule.
The spokesperson for the Center for Public Health noted that there is a vaccine against tick-borne encephalitis; it is not included in the vaccination schedule, but it can be purchased at pharmacies.
At the same time, Ganich emphasized that such vaccination is necessary in regions with high endemic risks.
“Vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis is necessary if you are traveling to a country with high risks, or for people who face high occupational risks,” explained the spokesperson for the Center for Public Health.
The risk of encountering infected individuals in Ukraine remains stable but requires constant vigilance. Official data indicate isolated cases of the most dangerous type of the virus.
He noted that six cases of tick-borne encephalitis were recorded in Ukraine last year, and one this year.
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