Take precautions against tick bites

As the weather warms up and outdoor activities increase, I’m reminding everyone to take precautions against tick bites which can lead to Lyme disease and other tick-borne infections.

Lyme disease can be transmitted through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick. These ticks are widespread across Durham Region, especially in forested areas, areas with tall grass and areas with lots of leaf litter. While not all ticks carry Lyme disease, it is important to be cautious, especially during the spring and early summer when ticks are most active.

Early symptoms of Lyme disease can appear within a few days to a month after a tick bite. Symptoms may include fever, chills, headache, muscle or joint pain, extreme tiredness, stiff neck, swollen lymph nodes, and an expanding red rash that often looks like a bull’s-eye target. If left untreated, Lyme disease can progress to a more serious illness affecting the heart, joints and nervous system. Early treatment with antibiotics is effective.

Residents can help reduce their exposure to Lyme disease by taking precautions including:

• Wearing long pants, long-sleeved shirts, socks and closed footwear.
• Tucking pants into socks and wearing light-coloured clothing to spot ticks easily.
• Using insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin on clothing and exposed skin.
• Taking a shower within one to two hours of being outdoors and checking your body thoroughly for ticks.
• Routinely checking pets for ticks and consulting a veterinarian for long-term protection for your pets.

To learn more, visit durham.ca/Ticks or call the Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.