WALKERS and outdoor workers are being warned against the dangers of disease ridden ticks as populations of the blood sucking bugs in Hampshire explode.

Ticks are found in moist areas of dense vegetation or long grass in woodland, grassland, moorland, heath land and some urban parks and gardens.

Infestations are popping up throughout the county but are particularly bad at the moment in the New Forest.

The parasites can attach themselves to an animal or person as they brush by and can be found throughout the year, but are most active between spring and autumn.

Director of public health Dr Ruth Milton said: “Ticks can transmit bacteria that cause diseases, such as Lyme disease, which can lead to very serious conditions if left untreated.

“Tick bites often go unnoticed, and the tick can remain feeding for several days before dropping off. The longer the tick is in place, the higher the risk of it passing on the infection.”

They can be avoided by keeping to footpaths, avoiding long grass, wearing clothing that covers, using insect repellents and making sure that ticks are not brought home on your clothes.

Adults and children should be checked on their heads, necks and skin folds and armpits, groin, and waistband. Pets should be examined too.

If you do get bitten by a tick, removing it quickly using fine tipped tweezers.