Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — With the arrival of outdoor season in Uzbekistan, there has been a noticeable increase in tick bites. Photos and videos showing swarms of these bloodsucking insects in poppy fields are circulating on social media. The country’s Sanitary and Epidemiological Service (SES) has confirmed a rise in reports related to tick bites, particularly in the outskirts of Tashkent.

According to the SES, ticks can transmit Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever — a dangerous viral disease that causes high fever, weakness, and, in severe cases, internal bleeding.

Healthcare professionals are urging citizens to take the following precautions when spending time outdoors: — avoid areas with tall grass;
— use insect repellents;
— wear protective clothing that covers the body;
— thoroughly check the body after walks, especially behind the ears, on the neck, and under the arms.

Experts also advise treating pets with antiparasitic products, as ticks pose a threat to animals as well.