How to prevent tick bites and Lyme disease

PRESS RELEASE
THE GOVERNMENT OF ONTARIO
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The Ontario government encourages residents across the province to take precautions when they spend time outdoors to prevent tick bites and Lyme disease.

Lyme disease is a serious infection caused by an infected blacklegged tick. You can find an infected tick almost anywhere in Ontario, which is why the government reminds Ontarians to protect themselves from tick bites before the weekend in May.

"Now that hot weather has finally arrived, more and more Ontarians will appreciate the weather outside," said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health and Long-Term Care. . "But the hot weather also means that ticks are active and active, and we want to make sure Ontarians understand how to protect themselves and their loved ones from Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases, so that They can enjoy the outdoors safely

You may be exposed to tick bites if you spend time in wooded areas or tall grasses and shrubs (including city gardens and parks).

You can protect yourself by:

• Wear light colored shirts, closed toe shoes and long pants in your socks.
• Use an insect repellent containing "DEET" or "icaridine", which is effective and can be used safely if applied according to instructions.
• Check your safety, that of your children and your pets after your stay outside and quickly eliminate ticks.

"Lyme disease is preventable," said Dr. David Williams, Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health. "That's why we encourage Ontarians to learn how to protect themselves and prevent tick bites – these simple precautions are the best defense for you and your family."

Ticks are small and hard to see. If you find a tick, carefully remove it with the help of a tweezers because crushing or damaging the tick could cause the bacteria to get sick. Lyme in the bloodstream. Clean the area with soap and water once you have removed the tick.

Consult a health professional as soon as possible if you have problems after a tick bite. In case of early detection, most cases of Lyme disease can be successfully treated with antibiotics.

QUICK FACTS

• Although the probability is low, it is possible to find an infected blacklegged tick almost everywhere in Ontario.
• Lyme disease cases are on the rise in the province.
• The first symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and an expanding rash.
• If left untreated, Lyme disease can tire you and make you weak, and if it worsens, it can damage your heart, nerves, liver, and joints, and in very rare cases, lead to death.
• Although ticks are most active in the spring and summer, they can be found at any time of the year when the temperature is above freezing.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

To learn more about Lyme disease at Ontario.ca/Lyme

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