Germany makes the tick check: TBE provision also important in the European Championship summer

Germany makes the tick check: TBE provision also important in the European Championship summer

Soon the kick-off for the men's football championship and all eyes will be directed to the square. But football fans should also take a look beyond the edge of the field, because ticks are also on the rise there. As part of the "Germany makes the tick check" campaign, experts examined sports and public viewing places on ticks on behalf of Pfizer in German cities. 46 ticks were found on 200 m² in Dresden, followed by Magdeburg and Frankfurt (Oder) with 23 or 16 ticks each. It is worrying that all three cities are located in a TBE risk area shown by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) or are nearby. The risk of being stung by an infected tick is particularly particularlyive in these regions. The constant vaccination commission (STIKO) therefore recommends everyone who could come into contact with ticks in these areas-for example when kicking or public viewing in the countryside.

Early summer meningoencephalitis (TBE) is an illness transmitted by ticks in which the meninges and brain can ignite. The disease can lead to permanent damage such as paralysis as well as swallowing and language disorders and even fatal in the event of difficult courses. Vaccination is the best protection against TBE disease. For all those who need TBE vaccination protection at short notice, there is a quick vaccination scheme in which protection can be built within a few weeks. In addition to vaccination, experts recommend wearing long clothing, using anti-tick sprays and the thorough searching of the body after every stay in the green.

The ticks are favored by increasing forest management and climate change. You feel not only in the forest, but also in the urban green - for example in city parks, beer gardens or the home garden. According to a current survey, more than two thirds of the Germans are in the countryside at least once a week. Nevertheless, many people underestimate the risk of being stung by an infected tick. Therefore, it is important that everyone who is a lot outdoors can be advised on TBE vaccination-regardless of whether you are a football fan or not.

Here are the results of the examination at a glance:

City | Ticks on 200 m²
-|-
Dresden | 46
Magdeburg | 23
Frankfurt (Oder) | 16

It is alarming that the cities in which most of the ticks were found are all in a TBE risk area or are nearby. (Source: Pfizer)

ticks are not only annoying bloodsuckers, but can also transmit dangerous pathogens such as TBE viruses. It is therefore important to find out about the risks and protective measures. Further information on tick and TBE prevention as well as current information on ticks and TBE can be found on the TBE press page of Pfizer and the website www.zecken.de.

Pfizer is working worldwide to improve people's quality of life by giving access to innovative medication and vaccines. Pfizer sets standards for quality, security and benefits in the discovery, development and manufacture of medicinal products. In Germany, more than 3,000 employees work at the Berlin, Freiburg and Karlsruhe locations. The work in Freiburg is one of the most modern pharmaceutical production facilities in the world and the largest of Pfizer for tablets and capsules. You can find more information on www.pfizer.de.

Note: The survey was held in the period from February 15th. carried out online until 02.03.2024. 10,000 people aged 18 and over were interviewed in Germany. (Source: Pfizer)

1. Investigation conditions and methodological approach of the investigation:
In the period from April 8, 2024 to May 3, 2024, 16 public viewing areas or sports facilities were examined for ticks nationwide on behalf of Pfizer. The classic flag method was applied, in which a flanna cloth is pulled over the vegetation or leaf litter close to the ground. The ticks found were counted, but it was not examined whether they are infected with pathogens.

Pfizer is committed to making health affordable and available for everyone. As one of the globally leading research -based pharmaceutical manufacturers, Pfizer works with medical specialists, health facilities, government organizations and local communities to ensure reliable health care. Pfizer has been moving something for everyone who rely on the company for over 175 years.

This article is based on a press release from Pfizer.

Source: pfizer pharma GmbH/ots