New app MONZEC: This is how we fight ticks in the Alpine region!

New app MONZEC: This is how we fight ticks in the Alpine region!

On June 20, 2025, infectiologist Gernot Walder presented the new monitoring app “MONZEC”, which was developed specifically for monitoring ticks. This innovative application is intended to help gain a better understanding of the spread of ticks in East Tyrol, South Tyrol and Belluno. Ticks, which are the most widespread parasites in the Alpine region after mosquitoes, pose a significant risk as they carry various diseases.

The app was developed in close collaboration with the South Tyrolean Hunting Association, veterinarians from Belluno and the Tyrolean Hunters Association. Hunters play a crucial role as they come into regular contact with ticks. MONZEC allows users to record information about ticks found, including the type, number and exact location. This data is stored anonymously in a database and contributes to the scientific analysis of the tick population. Users can also upload photos of the ticks to further aid detection.

Growing dangers and monitoring system

The spread of new species of ticks and the colonization of areas that were traditionally considered tick-free have increased the risk of infection for humans. These developments require an effective monitoring system that records the current situation and provides valid data on the spread of ticks. Education and awareness-raising measures are necessary to inform the population about the changing dangers and to develop suitable protective measures, as the project shows. RMO supports this initiative and focuses on comprehensive vector monitoring in the affected regions.

Ticks can transmit various health-damaging diseases, including allergies such as Alpha Gal. An important goal of the monitoring system is to create a suitable basis for raising awareness among relevant population groups. In addition, the system will be expanded to cover all of South Tyrol and North Tyrol in the future. The app is currently available for users in Belluno, Pustertal (South Tyrol) and East Tyrol and can be downloaded from both the App Store for iPhone and the Playstore for Android.

The influence of climate change

Another aspect that influences the tick population is climatic changes. In Germany, unusually warm and dry weather conditions have changed the tick fauna regionally in recent years, as ZEPAK reports. New species of ticks with different behaviors could pose additional risks to public health. These include riparian forest ticks, relict ticks and Hyalomma ticks, which not only complement native tick species but can also act as vectors for dangerous diseases.

The monitoring system in East Tyrol and the surrounding regions is an important step towards better overcoming the challenges caused by climatic changes. By collecting medically relevant data on tick populations, public health communication, information and prevention is strengthened.

Those interested can find further information about MONZEC and the associated projects at zeckencheck.at.