Tengrinews.kz - A total of 186 people, including 89 children, have sought medical help in Almaty since early March due to tick bites, citing KTK.
Sanitary doctors say the peak period for tick activity traditionally falls in April and May.
“There has been a sharp increase in tick activity in Almaty. So far, 34 ticks removed from people have been tested. One sample tested positive for the tick-borne encephalitis antigen. According to the patient, the bite occurred in Almaty Region,” said Asel Kalykova, Deputy Head of the Almaty Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control.
Efforts to combat ticks began in late March. Specialized teams are spraying wooded areas, parks, and public gardens. More than 4,500 hectares are expected to be treated, with the campaign costing the city budget 144 million tenge.
To reduce the risk of tick bites, health officials recommend wearing light-colored, tightly woven clothing that covers the body and high boots. If bitten, residents are advised to seek immediate medical attention at trauma centers. Key symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, nausea, and swelling.