Public perspectives on tick bite exposure, healthcare visits and associated allergies in iberia

Tick bites and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) are a worldwide concern, with growing evidence of an ongoing spread and emergence of new cases. This study applied a participatory citizen science across Spain and Portugal to gather public perspectives on the impact of tick bites, the presence of TBDs and a potential connection with the α-Gal syndrome (AGS).

Data collected from the questionnaire (380 participants) was geographically represented using QGIS Geographic Information System and fitted into multiple generalized linear models (GLMs). Statistical analysis identified factors influencing the occurrence of local skin reactions post-tick bite, AGS-compatible symptoms and visits to health centers following tick exposure.

Results showed that the probability of developing localized skin reactions to tick bites rises with increasing age (χ² = 0.006, p < 0.05), the occurrence of multiple bites (χ² = 0.006, p = 0.063) and among individuals bitten in the center-north part of the peninsula (χ² = 0.006, p = 0.058). Seeking medical care following tick bite was reported by 21.6% of respondents, being more common in first-time bite cases (χ² = 0.002, p < 0.01), men (χ² = 0.002, p < 0.01) or individuals presenting localized skin symptoms (χ² = 0.002, p < 0.05). Although 38 inquiries (10.0%) showed signs of AGS, only 3 had received a formal diagnosis, with the odds of developing this disease marginally rising with advancing age (χ² = 0.215, p = 0.066).

This study provides valuable insights that should be considered to improve TBDs surveillance and diagnostic strategies, as well as developing preventive measures to reduce tick bite exposure and TBD cases.Key MessagesDeveloping local skin reactions to tick bites increases with age, multiple bites and in individuals bitten in central-northern Iberia.Seeking medical care following a tick bite is more common in first-time bite cases, men or individuals with local skin symptoms.Although 38 inquiries (10.0%) showed signs of AGS, only 3 were formally diagnosed, with risk increasing with age.