Ticks in Sudbury test positive for bacteria that can cause Lyme disease
The Sudbury and District Health Unit says two blacklegged ticks found in this area have tested positive for the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease.
The Sudbury and District Health Unit says two blacklegged ticks found in this area have tested positive for the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease.
These are the second and third positive ticks reported to the Sudbury health unit this year.
If you find a tick embedded in your skin, remove it with tweezers, and clean the area. Then take the tick to the health unit or your health care provider so it can be tested for the disease, said the health unit.
Here are some suggestion from the medical officer of health on how to avoid ticks.
- avoiding walking in tall grass and making sure yards are kept clear of debris and overgrown vegetation, grass, bushes, and trees
- keeping wood piles and bird feeders away from homes
- wearing a long-sleeved, light-coloured shirt, pants, and closed-toe shoes
- using insect repellents that are federally regulated and contain DEET, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for their safe use
- checking your clothing, body, and pets for ticks and changing your clothing upon returning home from the outdoors
- taking a shower to help wash off ticks that have not yet attached themselves to the skin
A characteristic sign of Lyme disease is a rash that looks like a bull's eye, fever, headache and muscle pain.