What is Tick Awareness Week in the Netherlands?

Tick Awareness Week, known locally as “Week van de Teek,” is an annual event in the Netherlands aimed at raising public awareness about the risks associated with tick bites and promoting preventive measures to reduce tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease and tick-borne encephalitis. This initiative typically takes place in the spring, coinciding with the beginning of tick season when tick activity increases.

History and origin

Tick Awareness Week was established through collaboration between Dutch health organizations, research institutions, and environmental agencies. Recognizing the rising incidence of tick bites and associated diseases, these groups launched the campaign to educate the public on prevention, early detection, and proper tick removal techniques.

Over the years, the campaign has expanded, using media outlets, educational programs, and community events to emphasize the importance of vigilance when spending time outdoors. The initiative aims to reduce tick-borne illnesses by promoting safe practices among nature lovers, pet owners, and the general public.

Who participates?

• Public health organizations: Institutions like the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) lead initiatives to inform citizens about tick-related health risks.
• Research institutions: Universities and scientific centers study tick behavior and disease transmission, sharing their findings to improve prevention.
• Environmental and nature organizations: Groups managing natural areas provide insights into tick habitats and encourage safe outdoor practices.
• Healthcare professionals: Doctors and nurses educate patients on recognizing tick bites, symptoms of tick-borne diseases, and appropriate treatments.
• Local communities: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, and pet owners engage in preventive measures and participate in awareness events.

Slogans and themes

Tick Awareness Week emphasizes proactive prevention and education. Messages focus on personal responsibility and community involvement in reducing tick-borne diseases. Common themes include “check yourself, prevent Lyme,” “be tick aware: protect and inspect,” and “early detection saves health.” The campaign encourages everyone to take small steps toward avoiding tick bites and recognizing symptoms early.

Colors, symbols, and patterns

Colors

• Green: Represents nature and tick-prone environments.
• Red: Symbolizes alertness and the potential health risks of tick bites.
• Yellow: Denotes caution and the importance of preventive measures.

Symbols

• Tick icon: A visual representation to increase recognition and awareness.
• Magnifying glass: Emphasizes the need for thorough body checks after outdoor activities.
• Shield: Symbolizes protection and preventive actions against tick bites.

Patterns

• Nature motifs: Featuring leaves, grass, and woodland elements to represent tick habitats.
• Check marks: Reinforcing the importance of performing regular tick checks.
• Circular arrows: Indicating the lifecycle of ticks and the ongoing need for awareness.

Most used hashtags

• #WeekvandeTeek
• #TickAwareness
• #PreventLyme
• #TickCheck
• #StayTickSafe

How to celebrate

• Attend educational workshops: Learn about tick habitats, proper removal techniques, and disease symptoms from experts.
• Join community nature walks: Participate in guided walks where specialists teach about tick-prone areas and safe outdoor practices.
• Engage in social media campaigns: Share prevention tips, personal experiences, and awareness messages using official hashtags.
• Perform tick checks: Make tick inspections a routine after spending time outdoors with family and pets.
• Distribute informational materials: Provide brochures, posters, and online resources to schools, workplaces, and community centers.

Why is Tick Awareness Week important?

With approximately 1.5 million tick bites occurring annually in the Netherlands, public education is crucial to preventing tick-borne diseases. Tick Awareness Week plays a vital role in informing citizens about the risks, promoting preventive behaviors, and encouraging early detection and treatment. By increasing awareness, the initiative aims to reduce Lyme disease cases and improve public health outcomes.