Boots superintendent pharmacist Claire Nevinson has issued urgent advice on tick removal after new data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) showed a rise in travel-associated infections. Between January and June 2026, 137 dengue cases were reported in England, while Zika cases have already surpassed the total for all of 2025. Nevinson stressed that prompt action is critical to avoid Lyme disease, a bacterial infection that can cause serious complications if untreated.
How to Remove a Tick Safely
"If you've been bitten by a tick, you should try to remove the tick as soon as possible using fine-toothed tweezers to gently grip the tick as close to the skin as possible before pulling steadily away from the skin without twisting or crushing the tick," Nevinson said. After removal, wash the skin with soap and water and apply an antiseptic cream to the bite area.
Lyme Disease: Symptoms and Risks
Lyme disease, or Lyme borreliosis, is caused by bacteria spread through infected tick bites. Ticks are spider-like creatures found in woodland and moorland. "In general, the earlier Lyme disease is diagnosed, the easier it is to treat," Nevinson noted. Symptoms include a circular or oval rash around the bite appearing one to four weeks after the bite, though it can take up to three months. Early signs also include fatigue, muscle or joint pain, headaches, fever, chills, and a stiff neck.
When to See a GP
Nevinson advised seeing a GP if you develop a round or oval rash or flu-like symptoms after a tick bite or after being in areas like long grass or forests where ticks may be present. A GP will assess symptoms and may order blood tests to confirm diagnosis.
Other Insect Bites and Stings
Wasps, Bees, and Hornets
"A wasp sting can feel sudden. It starts with sharp pain, followed by a swollen red mark which may be painful and itchy and can last a few hours," Nevinson said. For bee stings, remove the sting with tweezers if left in the wound, wash the area, apply a cold compress for at least ten minutes, and elevate the area to reduce swelling.
Mosquitoes
Mosquito bites cause itchy red lumps. Mosquitoes can spread serious illnesses like malaria in some regions. Nevinson recommends covering exposed skin at sunrise and sunset, using insect repellent, and checking if antimalarial medication is needed when travelling abroad via Boots' online quick check tool.
Horseflies
Horsefly bites are very painful and may cause a red raised rash, dizziness, weakness, wheezing, or swelling. Bites can take time to heal and may become infected. If signs of infection—increased pain, redness, swelling, or pus—appear, see a GP or pharmacist immediately.
Precautions While Travelling
UKHSA advises travellers to take precautions against mosquito-borne infections as summer holidays begin. Along with insect repellent and protective clothing, travellers should be aware of the risk of dengue and Zika in affected regions.
