Deadly Virus-Carrying Tick Spreads in EuropeThu 9th May, 2024In Spain, the emergence of a tropical tick originating from Africa, and now spreading in Europe due to global climate shifts, has led to a severe case of disease. A man in Salamanca contracted Crimean-Congo fever following a tick bite, necessitating hospitalization. Identified as Hyalomma marginatum, this tick species has sporadically established itself in Austria as well. Emergence of a New Tick Threat in Europe The Hyalomma tick, notably larger than indigenous species, serves as the primary vector for the Crimean-Congo virus, which induces hemorrhagic fever. However, he reassures that the risk of encountering this large tick species in Austria remains low compared to native ticks like the common wood tick.
