OPTICK

OPTICK is a large multi-institution Defra-UKRI funded project (2023-2026) focusing on understanding and mitigating the changing burdens and impacts of tick-borne diseases in UK farmlands. It aims to investigate under-reported livestock diseases including Red Water, Tick-borne Fever and Louping ill, and determine whether climate and land use changes, such as expanded woody cover on farms will alter exposure of livestock and people to tick-borne diseases, including Lyme Disease. OPTICK brings together experts in ecology, epidemiology, economics, public and animal health, and social science from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, University of Liverpool, Moredun Research Institute, Animal and Plant Health Agency, and UK Health Security Agency. OPTICK is working with farmers, vets, and decision makers across animal health, land and biodiversity management to co-develop the research and improve interventions for tick-borne diseases. Visit the stand to find out how you can get involved.