Warning of ticks in Eastern Ontario
The Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) has issued a warning to residents of Eastern Ontario that blacklegged ticks, which can transfer Lyme disease to humans, are being found in an increasing amount of locations across Cornwall and the five eastern counties.
At least 20 per cent of the blacklegged ticks in Eastern Ontario are in fact carrying the Lyme bacteria, which has led the EOHU to declare the disease well established in Cornwall and the five eastern counties. It is important to note, however, that not all ticks in these areas are the blacklegged ticks.
The chance of a tick transmitting Lyme disease to a human is very low if the tick is attached for less than 24 hours. Once it has been longer than the 24-hour period, the risk for Lyme disease is increased significantly. The Medical Officer of Health at the EOHU, Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, advises anyone who believes a tick has been attached for more than 24 hours or anyone who develops flulike symptoms or a growing rash following a tick bite to contact their healthcare provider.
The symptoms of Lyme disease usually begin within three to 30 days of a tick bite and can include fever, headaches, muscle and joint pains, spasms, numbness or tingling, facial paralysis, fatigue, swollen glands and/ or expanding skin rashes. “If Lyme infection is not recognized and treated, symptoms can last from months to years and include serious health problems affecting the heart, nervous system or joints,” said Dr. Roumeliotis.
Ticks are more common in the summer months but can be found all year around when the temperature is above zero and are usually likely to be found in woodlands, tall grass areas and bushes. The EOHU has provided more information on the presence of ticks in the area on their website and have provided a map of the risk areas for Lyme disease.