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Residents across Norfolk County are being reminded to remain vigilant when spending time outdoors, as ticks continue to be found across Norfolk.
Filip Pajtondziev, Manager of Infectious Diseases with Grand Erie Public Health, says tick activity this year is comparable to previous years, but there has been an notable change over the past decade.
Black-legged ticks, which can transmit Lyme disease, as well as American dog ticks are among the types being found locally.
Pajtondziev says residents shouldn’t assume they are safe simply because they aren’t hiking through deep brush.
Health officials recommend wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved clothing and closed-toe shoes when spending time in areas where ticks may be present.
Pants can also be tucked into socks, while insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin can be applied to exposed skin and clothing.
A full-body tick check should be done after returning indoors, and Pajtondziev says showering or bathing within two hours of being outside can also help.
If a tick is found, your first instinct may be to just take it out – but make sure you are doing so properly.
Residents can also submit ticks to eTick.ca for identification.
Pajtondziev says if a tick appears to have been attached for more than 24 hours, particularly if it is engorged, people should contact their healthcare provider, as they may require further medical advice, testing or treatment.
Grand Erie Public Health is also continuing tick dragging in Norfolk and Haldimand counties.
Results are expected to provide more information about the types of ticks being found locally and whether they are carrying certain diseases.
He also wants to dispel the idea that every tick bite results in Lyme disease.
Even as summer begins to wind down, residents shouldn’t let their guard down.
Pajtondziev says ticks can continue to be found into September and October, and sometimes even November, depending on the weather.
For more information and to identify a tick, residents can visit eTick.ca.
