Santé Publique France has issued a warning regarding the resurgence of the Hyalomma marginatum tick, also known as the “giant tick,” in Corsica and southern France. This development has raised concerns among health officials and the public due to the tick’s association with the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) virus.
In 2023, the CCHF virus was first discovered in France, examined on cattle ticks from the French Pyrénées-Orientales region. Although no human cases have been reported in France thus far, the potential for transmission remains a significant concern. Thirteen people have died from the virus in Spain, underscoring the potential severity of the disease.
The Hyalomma marginatum tick is notably larger than the typical tick species, measuring approximately 8 mm compared to the common tick’s size of 1 to 5 mm. First reported in southern France in 2015, this species has been steadily spreading across the region. Its ability to transmit illnesses, including Lyme disease and CCHF, makes it a significant public health threat.
Health officials have placed the regions of Alpes-Maritimes, Var, and Bouches-du-Rhône on high alert. Although there have been no reported human cases in France, the presence of the tick is being closely monitored. Animals in the region are at risk, prompting increased vigilance among veterinary and health professionals.
Santé Publique France is urging residents and visitors in the affected areas to be aware of the potential presence of Hyalomma marginatum ticks. Symptoms of CCHF include intestinal problems and flu-like symptoms, though no human cases have been documented in France to date. While tick bites are usually not harmful, the risk of disease transmission warrants caution.
The return of the Hyalomma marginatum tick to Corsica and southern France highlights the need for ongoing surveillance and public awareness. Santé Publique France continues to monitor the situation and advises the public to take preventive measures against tick bites to mitigate the risk of disease transmission.
