Islay’s countryside, beaches, woodland, golf courses and moorland are wonderful places to explore. However, ticks can be found in many outdoor areas, especially in long grass, bracken, woodland and places where deer, sheep or other animals are present.
Most tick bites are harmless, but it is important to remove ticks promptly and know what symptoms to look out for afterwards.
If you discover a tick attached to your skin, do not panic. The sooner it is removed, the lower the risk of complications.
If you are unsure how to remove a tick, or you are concerned after a tick bite, speak to our pharmacy team.
Islay Pharmacy
42 Main Street
Bowmore
Isle of Islay
PA43 7JJ
Telephone: 01496 301591
Ticks are small spider-like creatures that feed on blood. They can vary in size from a tiny speck to a small pea when fully fed.
Ticks do not jump or fly. They attach to people or animals when brushing past vegetation and may remain attached for several days if not removed.
The safest way to remove a tick is with a dedicated tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers.
To remove a tick:
Do not:
These methods may increase the risk of infection or make removal more difficult.
Most people will not require treatment after a tick bite.
After removing the tick:
It can be helpful to take a photograph of the bite area so you can monitor any changes.
Some ticks can carry bacteria that cause Lyme disease.
Symptoms may develop days or weeks after a tick bite.
Possible symptoms include:
Not everyone develops the classic bullseye rash, so it is important to seek advice if you feel unwell after a tick bite.
Contact a healthcare professional if:
Early treatment for Lyme disease is usually very effective.
Yes. Our pharmacy team can:
If you are unsure whether you have completely removed a tick, please speak to us.
When walking in areas where ticks may be present:
Pay particular attention to:
Whilst this page is mainly about tick bites, visitors exploring Islay’s countryside should also be aware that adders may occasionally be seen in Scotland, particularly in warmer weather.
Adder bites are uncommon, but they should be treated as a medical emergency. If you think you or someone with you has been bitten by an adder, seek urgent medical help immediately.
Do not try to catch the snake, cut the bite, apply a tourniquet, or suck out the venom. Keep the person as still as possible and call for urgent medical advice.
Ticks can be found throughout Scotland and may be encountered anywhere on Islay, particularly when enjoying:
Simple precautions can help reduce your risk while still allowing you to enjoy everything the island has to offer.
Need advice about a tick bite?
Our team can provide guidance, tick removal tools and information on when to seek further medical attention.
Islay Pharmacy
42 Main Street
Bowmore
Isle of Islay
PA43 7JJ
Telephone: 01496 301591
You may also find these pages helpful:
The information on this page is intended as general guidance only and should not replace advice from a doctor, pharmacist or other healthcare professional.
If you develop symptoms following a tick bite, or are concerned about Lyme disease, seek medical advice promptly.
If you think you have been bitten by an adder, seek urgent medical help immediately.
If you become seriously unwell, contact NHS 24 on 111 or call 999 in an emergency.
