Recent surveys conducted jointly by the Rosgosstrakh Insurance Company and the Zarplata.ru Research Center reveal notable patterns in how Russians respond to tick exposures. The study finds that a majority of Russians, 59 percent, recall a tick bite at some point, and about one in five of those cases required medical treatment later because ticks can carry infections. When a tick is found, more than half of the respondents, 62 percent, sought professional care at a medical facility to remove it, while 38 percent managed the removal themselves or with help from family and friends.
After a tick is removed, only 62 percent of respondents submitted the specimen for laboratory testing, and 11 percent planned to test it but discovered the tick material was not suitable for diagnostic analysis. To mitigate potential consequences from a tick bite, Russians pursued several paths, including consulting a doctor for a professional evaluation (30 percent), undergoing blood tests for IgM and IgG antibodies to tick-borne encephalitis virus and Borrelia (28 percent), emergency prophylaxis with antiviral drugs or immunoglobulin (21 percent), and antibiotic treatment in 15 percent of cases.
In addition, 41 percent of respondents did not take any protective steps because tick testing did not reveal infections (20 percent), they perceived no serious risk from the bite (13 percent), or they were already vaccinated (8 percent). These responses illustrate a spectrum of risk perception and clinical action among the population, underscoring the need for clear guidance on when testing and preventive measures are warranted.
The survey also assessed the time and effort invested in the tick bite process, from initial information gathering to medical treatment. About 42 percent completed all steps within a state medical institution in a matter of hours, while 15 percent found prompt help in paid clinics. Conversely, 11 percent faced several days of scheduling tests and appointments before receiving comprehensive care. This spread highlights the variability in access to timely health services and the importance of quick, accurate decision-making after a bite.
Financial aspects mattered as well. Approximately one third of Russians received free medical aid, 14 percent paid up to 2,000 rubles, and 15 percent paid between 2,000 and 5,000 rubles. Another 11 percent held insurance coverage for tick-related health needs. Vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis remains relatively modest, with only about one third of the population vaccinated. Insurance against tick bites is common in some cases: 7 percent are provided by employers, 18 percent purchased independently, including 8 percent who covered the whole family, and 39 percent expressed intent to insure specifically against tick bites in the future. Among the broader financial landscape, 72 percent of Russians consider tick insurance necessary, reflecting a strong perceived risk and a desire for preventive protection.
These findings align with broader public health discussions about tick-borne diseases and the practical choices people make in response to bite events. The data underscore the need for accessible testing where appropriate, clear guidance on vaccination and prophylaxis, and transparent information about the cost and effectiveness of preventive measures. For readers seeking practical steps, consulting a healthcare professional promptly after a bite remains a prudent first move, especially when removal was delayed, the tick was suspicious, or vaccination status is unclear. Previous coverage in media discussions has also explored how color choices and personal behavior may influence tick encounters, reinforcing the idea that awareness and preparation matter in reducing the risk of tick-borne infections. When in doubt, seeking credible medical advice and verified vaccination status helps individuals make informed decisions in real time. [Citation: Rosgosstrakh Insurance Company; Zarplata.ru Research Center]