Foresters are exposed to tick-borne zoonotic diseases. Can citizen sciences help them to improve prevention?

Foresters who work in forest environments always come into contact with ticks, making them vulnerable to contracting tick-borne diseases. Ticks are a major threat to European forest workers, particularly those in France. However, reducing tick exposure and bites in this population is paramount to curbing the transmission of tick-borne zoonotic diseases. In this regard, citizen science involves the collaboration of researchers and citizens in scientific research, which is crucial for expanding scientific knowledge. In the context of tick-borne disease prevention, it has become a valuable tool for foresters as they collaborate with scientists. Through this collaboration, foresters and farmers can better understand various tick species and the associated risks of infection from tick bites. Hence, this position paper highlights the role of citizen science initiatives in enhancing preventive measures against tick bites and reducing the risk of tick-borne diseases.?????????????????????? ???????????????????????????????????????

First, citizen involvement in collecting and reporting data on tick bites and locations allows scientists to map the distribution of different tick species throughout France. This information contributes to a comprehensive understanding of tick populations in the country. Another significant role of citizen science is to educate people about the ecology of ticks and tick-borne zoonotic diseases. For example, the involvement of citizens, especially foresters, in collecting and recording tick bites has considerably contributed to the prevention of tick-borne zoonotic diseases in France.

Additionally, CiTIQUE programs have implemented digitalization efforts that go beyond tick identification. It is crucial to ensure that tick information is readily accessible to farmers and foresters. Observations revealed that samples are typically labeled and stored in envelopes or zip-lock bags, limiting foresters' access to tick information until they visit the INRAE. This lack of access hampers knowledge of tick characteristics, exposure, and prevention. To address this issue effectively, digitalization can be implemented by cataloguing and storing ticks and making information available in online databases. These databases would include high-resolution images of tick species, location information, and distribution data, enabling farmers and foresters to have better access to comprehensive tick information.

Furthermore, it is crucial to raise awareness among foresters regarding ticks and tick-borne diseases. This will ensure that foresters remain up-to-date on the latest findings or discoveries from research scientists and, in turn, will provide a well-informed approach to preventing the spread and transmission of these diseases. One way to achieve this is through regular meetings and communication between scientists and foresters to share the latest research findings and preventive measures and provide a platform for discussing tick ecology, demography, and associated tick-borne diseases. These meetings facilitate face-to-face interactions, allowing foresters to share their concerns, receive appropriate solutions, and stay well informed about developing potential strategies for reducing tick bites and preventing tick-borne diseases. In addition, researchers can showcase and demonstrate new preventive measures. This approach strengthens the relationship between researchers and foresters, instilling confidence in combating zoonotic diseases. Moreover, technological advancement makes it possible to have social media platforms that present another opportunity to reach a wide range of foresters and citizens. Similarly, targeted advertisements can provide constant visual information to foresters, including various tick species, their pathogenic status, and suitable prevention and control measures.

Owing to the participatory approach provided through the citizen science initiative, foresters and scientists can easily exchange tick information, assisting in the discovery of tick geographical locations in France. Consequently, foresters gain access to adequate prevention and control methods provided by the scientific community. This two-way communication and collaboration offer significant benefits for tackling this issue. Through citizen science, the CiTIQUE programme has been at the forefront of tick-borne disease prevention in France. However, to enhance the program's effectiveness, it is recommended that online databases be established as centralized sources of tick-related information that are readily accessible to citizens throughout the country.

Moreover, organizing periodic meetings and training sessions should be explored to increase foresters' awareness of safety practices and effective prevention measures. In addition, providing online courses to support citizen science efforts related to ticks is significant. These courses would enable foresters to enhance their understanding of tick ecology, including identifying high-risk tick areas by mapping different regions and recognizing peak periods of tick activity. The courses could also include informative videos demonstrating various prevention measures, like self-tick checks, chemical repellents, protective clothing, tick twisters to remove ticks safely and swiftly after bites, and practicing late mowing techniques.?????????????????

To conclude, citizen science programs have provided several effective prevention strategies for tick bites and tick-borne diseases in France. So, I would like to point out that no approach can offer a 100% guarantee of eliminating the risk of tick bites among foresters. Thus, it is crucial to intensify preventive measures among forest workers who are at high risk of being bitten by ticks and contracting tick-borne diseases.