As the weather warms up, Lambton Public Health (LPH) is warning of an increase in ticks this year.
Ticks are active throughout Lambton County, and residents are encouraged to take precautions to avoid them, especially blacklegged ticks, which can carry Lyme disease.
"If you're going into long grass, bushes, wooded areas, try to stick to those trails and avoid contact with longer grass, that sort of thing. Same thing applies to your animals, right? They're the ones that are usually off exploring, or your little children," said Health Protection Supervisor Lori Lucas. "Try to wear long pants if you can, long-sleeve shirts, socks, closed-toed shoes, and a hat."
LPH continues to see significant increases in the number of blacklegged ticks submitted for identification. ‘Lyme Disease Risk Areas’ have been identified across the county, which include Pinery Provincial Park.
Blacklegged ticks are most likely to transmit infection after being attached for more than 24 hours.
Lucas notes the best thing to do is check for ticks on yourself, family and pets once you're inside.
"Having a friend, someone at home that can kind of check you, making sure you're checking your children that can't do it themselves, checking your pet, that sort of thing," said Lucas. "Bug spray insect repellent that contains Deet or in keratin on your clothing and your skin, always following label instructions, and then you know, having tick collars and stuff like that for pets."
To learn more about ticks and how to find and remove them, visit the Lambton Public Health website or call 519-383-8331 extension 3812.
