Tick check after a Dutch summer walk: act within 24 hours

Dutch woods, dunes, grassland and even a back garden can host ticks in summer. This is not a reason to keep children indoors; it is a reason to add a two-minute skin check to the trip home. Check behind knees, in the groin and armpits, and behind children’s ears. GGD guidance says that removing a tick within 24 hours makes the chance of Lyme disease almost zero.

• Time and place: ticks are most active from March to October, after time in parks, grass, woodland or gardens.
• Best for: families, hikers, campers, cyclists and anyone outdoors with children or pets; children’s necks and ears are easy to miss.
• What to do: use fine tweezers or a tick card close to the skin and pull straight out. Do not use oil or alcohol first; disinfect and note the date.

Hokimi field note: Make the check a calm homecoming ritual. Contact your GP for an expanding ring-like rash, fever or other symptoms.