Tengrinews.kz — Reports of tick bites continue to emerge across Kazakhstan even as summer draws to a close. Experts warn that it is too early to let our guard down. Tengrinews correspondent investigated which ticks remain active into the autumn and which regions are most affected.
Bite and Disease Statistics
The press service of the Ministry of Health's National Center for Public Health informed us that between the beginning of the year and August 19, Kazakhstan recorded 43 cases of tick-borne encephalitis. the regional breakdown is as follows:
- East Kazakhstan Region — 14 cases;
- North Kazakhstan Region — 7;
- Almaty — 7;
- Akmola Region — 6;
- Astana — 3;
- Pavlodar Region — 3;
- Almaty Region — 2;
- Aktobe Region — 1.
"Compared to the same period last year, the incidence of tick-borne encephalitis has increased by six cases," the press service shared.
In total, 15,087 people sought medical assistance for tick bites in 2024. Of these, 6,861 were children under the age of 14.
According to the National Center, 105 such consultations were registered in the country over the past week alone, including 71 cases involving children.
When to Expect a New Surge in Activity
While the primary peak of ixodid tick activity in Kazakhstan occurs during the spring and summer, specialists note that the risk does not completely vanish by late summer.
According to the National Center for Public Health, ticks can become even more active in certain regions and natural habitats during August and September.
"In recent years, cases of Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever and tick-borne encephalitis have been observed in late summer and early autumn — even as late as October," the experts added.
According to officials, the potential increase in tick numbers and activity during late summer and early autumn depends on the specific species of arachnid and the environmental and climatic conditions of a given area.
Which Ticks are Active in Late Summer
In the spring, the primary epidemiological role is played by species with pronounced spring activity. These include Ixodes persulcatus, the main carrier of tick-borne encephalitis and Lyme disease pathogens.
However, in late summer and early autumn, the significance of other tick genera increases in some regions. Specifically, experts highlight Dermacentor and certain species of Hyalomma.
"The species composition of ticks and their activity periods in summer and autumn can differ significantly from the spring period," the specialists reported.
Regions Where Ticks May Remain Active Until October
Based on long-term observations, the longest periods of activity are recorded in the Almaty and East Kazakhstan regions, as well as in the vicinity of Almaty city, the National Center noted.
In other regions, particularly the Zhambyl, Turkistan, and Kyzylorda regions, they are typically encountered until August or September, and in rare cases, until October.
How to Protect Yourself from Ticks in Autumn
Experts warn that protective measures against ticks remain relevant even during the autumn months.
They recommend, where possible:
- avoiding forest and mountain areas with tall grass and shrubs;
- staying away from animal trails and livestock paths;
- choosing light-colored clothing;
- wearing a heavy jacket with a hood and long sleeves, and trousers without holes or openings;
- tucking hair under a hood or headgear;
- using tick repellents.
After returning home, do not forget to check yourself, children, and pets that have been outdoors, and wash your clothes in hot water.
