Nova Scotians Cautioned Against Blacklegged Ticks

HEALTH/WELLNESS--Nova Scotians Cautioned Against Blacklegged Ticks

• ---------------------------------------------------------------As Nova Scotians enjoy the woods and parks this spring, they are reminded to take precautions against bites from blacklegged ticks that can cause Lyme disease.

"The risk of contracting Lyme disease remains low, but it's still important to be aware and prevent exposure to ticks," said Dr. Robert Strang, chief public health officer. "People should be mindful when working or playing in grassy, shrubby and wooded areas."

There are several easy ways to prevent or reduce contact with ticks:

• wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants and socks so ticks are more visible, and enclosed shoes while working or playing outside or hiking in the woods
• pull socks up over pant legs and tuck in shirts
• spray clothing and exposed skin with an insect repellant containing DEET
• check clothing and exposed skin for ticks after working or playing outside in the bushes or tall grass and remove any ticks attached to the skin
• when possible, take a bath or shower within two hours of coming indoors. This makes it easier to find ticks
• keep grass well cut to minimize suitable habitat for ticks on your property.

"Tick checks are very important," said Dr. Strang. "Removing ticks as soon as possible can prevent or reduce the risk of infection, since blacklegged ticks can only transmit the bacterial infection after they have been attached to the skin for about 36 hours."

There are six known areas in Nova Scotia the Lyme disease bacteria is present in ticks. They include areas of Lunenburg, Shelburne, Queens, Yarmouth and Pictou counties, and Halifax Regional Municipality. However, ticks could be anywhere and it is best to take precautions whenever working or playing outdoors.

There are many kinds of ticks in Nova Scotia, but only blacklegged ticks carry the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease. Infected ticks can spread a bacterial infection through bites. If detected early, Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics. The earliest and most common symptom of Lyme disease is a bull's-eye rash at the site of the bite. Other symptoms include fever, fatigue, muscle aches and headaches.

If untreated, more serious illnesses can occur, including facial palsy which is a weakening of facial muscles, and heart or chronic joint problems. These complications can also be treated with antibiotics.

There have been 171 confirmed and probable cases of Lyme disease in Nova Scotia since 2002.

For more information and a map of known areas, visit www.novascotia.ca/dhw .