Information on ticks and Lyme disease
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread to humans by infected ticks – tiny spider-like creatures found in woodland and heath areas. Find out more about how our staff stay informed about Lyme disease and what to do if you experience symptoms.
What are ticks?
Ticks are small spider-like creatures that feed on the blood of birds and mammals, including humans. Ticks that carry the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease are found throughout the UK.
Managing risk at our places
We take all risks seriously at the places we care for, including Lyme disease. Wherever a risk is identified, a risk assessment is performed and a bepoke approach is developed by the on-site team to manage those risks for staff, volunteers and visitors.
Our staff members have access to internal information on Lyme disease which includes guidance from NHS Choices and Public Health England on the prevention and diagnosis of Lyme disease and tick removal.
Information for visitors
Information and guidance for visitors about Lyme disease is available at the places where we’ve identified a material risk, although it will never be clear where someone may have contracted the disease.
Anyone who experiences symptoms of the disease is encouraged to seek a medical opinion as soon as possible given the potentially serious long term implications of not receiving suitable treatment.
For more information on Lyme Disease, visit NHS Choices and Public Health England websites.
You might also be interested in
Article
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Article
Badgers and bovine TB
Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) has a devastating impact on livestock farmers. Discover the National Trust's policy of controlling this disease humanely, safeguarding the local wildlife population.
Article
Our views on nature and wildlife
Learn more about our views on protecting and conserving nature and wildlife, our own environmental targets, and our position on issues including trail hunting and shooting.
Visit
Visit somewhere new and explore seasonal gardens, historic castles and outdoor spaces. With over 500 places to discover, where will your adventures take you?