April brings with it annual warnings from Interior Health about the emergengence of ticks in the Similkameen.
“Ticks are most often found in tall grass and wooded areas so covering up before you head outdoors and checking for ticks on yourself, your children, and your pets after being outdoors are simple things that go a long way to prevent tick bites,” said Jennifer Jeyes, Communicable Disease Specialist with Interior Health.
Jeyes said there is no anticipation of this year being unusual in terms of the number of ticks in the region, noting the most common tick in the Similkameen is the Wood Tick (Dermacentor andersoni), which does not carry the Lyme disease bacteria. The Wood Tick can carry other diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, although it is very rare.
“In terms of the number of cases of lyme disease there are no numbers specific to the Similkameen,” she said, “there are between two and four cases reported annually throughout the Interior Health region, however.”
Jeyes said it is important for residents to always remember to check for ticks after being outside, noting that travel to other areas could increase the risk of a tick bite bearing lyme disease.
“Most tick bites do not result in illness; however, all tick bites should be cleaned, as infection can occur whenever there is a break in the skin,” added Jeyes. “It is important to watch for signs of tick-transmitted illnesses. Anyone who experiences a bull’s-eye rash or other symptoms should see a doctor as soon as possible.”
Other precautions include:
Walking on cleared trails when in tall grass or wooded areas.
Wearing a hat, long sleeves, pants, and light-coloured clothing.
Tucking pant legs into socks or boots.
Applying insect repellent containing DEET on uncovered skin.
Carefully checking clothing and scalp (covered or not) when leaving an area where ticks may live.
Having a shower after returning from areas where ticks may live.
