TickNet
TiquesNet is a citizen and scientific platform managed by the Department of Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases, Belgian Institute of Health, Sciensano. The TiquesNet project has several objectives:
- Temporal and geographical monitoring of the Belgian population's exposure to tick bites. Citizens can report on the TiquesNet platform any tick bite that has occurred in humans in Belgium (via website or smartphone application).
- Use and interpretation of surveillance data to guide the prevention of tick bites and related diseases. The data collected are used to better define the circumstances related to tick bites in Belgium and to translate this information into appropriate policies.
The results of the study are presented in the form of a map showing the number of tick bites reported, at the municipal level. See the map
More detailed results can be found on the TiquesNet results page. See the results
Why TickNet?
Ticks can be infected with various pathogens that can be transmitted to humans through a bite. Although not all ticks are infected, the occurrence of bites of humans is a good indicator of tick-related problems at a local level. The degree of exposure to tick bites is influenced by several factors, such as human behaviour, climate and land use. A better understanding of the factors determining the risk of tick bites in humans in Belgium allows for more targeted actions. With this in mind, the TickNet project was set up in June 2015, within the Infectious Diseases Epidemiology Department of Sciensano.