As the warmer weather encourages riders and their horses to take a canter around the countryside, Lyme disease charity BADA-UK (Borreliosis and Associated Diseases Awareness-UK) is warning them to be aware of tick-borne disease whilst out and about over the spring and summer months.

Ticks carrying Borreliosis (also known as Lyme disease) are found throughout the UK, so be it riding for pleasure, or in competitive events, either could prove to be a health risk to rider and horse alike.

“Many areas with good ground cover and diverse wildlife (such as squirrels, hedgehogs and deer) can pose a potential risk” says Wendy Fox, Chair of BADA-UK, and a Lyme disease sufferer. “It isn’t just an issue for the riders themselves, equine Lyme disease can have serious consequences and even result in the loss of the animal if it isn’t diagnosed and treated promptly.”

The Tick Prevention Week, organised by BADA-UK, was held recently, and aimed to provide information to help prevent ticks from biting people and pets. It also gives advice on what to do if ticks do attach. This year’s theme of ‘do one thing to raise awareness’ provides lots of ideas and schools, activity clubs and specialist interest groups are encouraged to do their bit to raise awareness.

Lyme disease is transmitted via the bite of an infected tick and can lead to serious complications including damage to the nervous system, joints, heart and other tissues.

Figures from the Health Protection Agency (HPA) show a year-on-year increase in cases of human Lyme disease, with a marked increase over the past six years from 292 in 2003 to 813 in 2008 (the latest figures). However the HPA estimate up to 3,000 cases every year. Figures released by Health Protection Scotland have shown a dramatic rise in infection rates from 28 confirmed cases in 2001 to 285 cases in 2008. Anecdotal reports also suggest that there has been a rise in cases of equine Lyme disease.

More information about Lyme disease and BADA-UK can be found at www.bada-uk.org