Tick-borne diseases are increasing worldwide, and there are currently few effective ways to prevent them. One promising new strategy is to develop a vaccine that targets the tick itself ("anti-tick vaccine") to block the transmission of multiple pathogens. Some animals naturally develop resistance to ticks after repeated tick bites. There are indications that a similar form of acquired tick resistance (ATR) may also occur in humans who have been heavily exposed to ticks. This study investigates whether humans can naturally develop tick resistance and how this affects tick feeding. The investigators will compare people with a long history of tick bites and self-reported signs of tick resistance to people who are tick-naïve. The investigators will also include a small group of volunteers who previously participated in an experimental human tick challenge to evaluate what their reaction on tickbites is 1-2 years after their initial exposures.
Age range
18 Years – 70 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
Tick feeding: tick weight
Timeframe: From the start of the tick challenge until feeding to repletion of the ticks (max 10 days)