Southwestern Public Health is warning residents that ticks are becoming more active with warmer spring temperatures and may carry Lyme disease. They advise wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks after spending time outdoors.
With warmer temperatures on the rise now that spring is here, Southwestern Public Health is reminding residents to stay vigilant as ticks become more active.
While ticks are present year-round, they become particularly active when temperatures rise above freezing. Often found in wooded areas, shrubs, tall grass, or leaf piles, these small parasites can pose a health risk as some carry Lyme disease.
To reduce the chances of tick bites, public health officials recommend the following precautions when spending time outdoors:
Cover up: Wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toed shoes if you’re heading into wooded or grassy areas.
Tuck in your clothes: Tuck your pants into your socks to stop ticks from crawling up your legs.
Choose light-colored clothes: This makes it easier to spot ticks.
Use bug spray with DEET: Follow the instructions on the label.
Check for ticks: After you’ve been outdoors, check your body for ticks, especially around your neck, underarms, and groin. They like those spots best.
If you find a tick on a human, Southwestern Public Health does offer tick identification services. For more information, visit swpublichealth.ca/ticks
