Moravian Orienteers

Ticks

• Risk Awareness:   Please be aware that ticks are common across many of the areas we run in and can carry infections such as Lyme Disease and Tick-Borne Encephalitis.  Ticks are active in the UK primarily from March to October, but year-round vigilance is recommended.

• Prevention Strategies:   

• Wearing full leg and abdomen cover in the forest.  

• Applying insect repellent to exposed skin and clothing.

• Checking yourself for ticks after your run.  Common areas for ticks include behind the knees, underarms, hairline, and any pressure points.

• Considering vaccination against TBE, if visiting high-risk areas in Europe or Asia.

• Tick Removal and Symptoms:   Consider using a tick removal tool to ensure the tick is removed quickly and completely.   If a tick has attached, it should be removed as soon as possible.
• Health Action:  If symptoms develop, such as a rash or flu-like symptoms, individuals should seek medical advice promptly and mention the tick bite, as not all doctors may be familiar with the conditions.

• Key Resources:

• Government Leaflet:  Linked here

• International Orienteering Federation (IOF):   Provides information and fact sheets on TBE in collaboration with health partners orienteering.sport/tick-borne-encephalitis-tbe-dont-run-the-risk/.

• NHS:  See nhs.uk for health advice on tick bites and associated conditions like Lyme disease. 

COVID-19 Guidance (Updated March 2025)

If you have symptoms of COVID or have tested positive to COVID, then do not attend the event or activity to help avoid spreading infection.