May 19, 2006
With the arrival of warm weather and the outdoor life it brings, the Health Unit reminds the public to avoid some common “bugs” of the season: mosquitoes and ticks.
Mosquitoes can carry West Nile virus and spread it to humans. A 2005 study indicates the human risk in the District is low because only a very small proportion of the critical species that spreads West Nile virus is found in the District (0.5%). Even with the low risk, the Health Unit recommends protecting yourself from mosquito bites by wearing long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks, when outdoors, and using an insect repellent with DEET.
Another pest to avoid is the tick. Wood ticks are most common to the District and are harmless to humans, mainly causing frustration when trying to remove the stubborn creatures from the skin. But, according to local entomologist Dr. Ken Deacon, deer ticks – the species which can spread Lyme disease to humans – are increasing in numbers in the area due to milder winters and springs which have allowed them to thrive.
Lyme disease is a serious inflammatory illness which affects the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and joints. Only two human cases of Lyme disease have been reported within the Thunder Bay District since 1995. Although the human risk of Lyme disease in the District is low due to the small population of deer ticks, the Health Unit recommends taking precautions to prevent tick bites.
Wear light-coloured clothing to help you see any ticks that may be on you. Wear shirts or sweatshirts with long sleeves and cuffs, pants, and socks. Use insect repellants with DEET, and be sure to inspect yourself after being outdoors. Don’t forget to also inspect your pets for ticks.
If you have a tick on you, remove it safely by using tweezers to gently but firmly pull it out of your skin. If possible, retain the tick in a sealed contained and bring it to your doctor or the Health Unit to have the species identified.
For more information about West Nile virus, ticks and Lyme disease, please contact the Health Unit’s Environmental Health Program at 807-625-5930 or visit our website at tbdhu.com.
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