Lyme disease is an infection caused by the corkscrew-shaped bacteria, Borrelia burgdorferi. In Ontario, these bacteria are spread by the bite of blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis). Although there are other types of ticks in Ontario (e.g. dog ticks), only the blacklegged tick can transmit Lyme disease. Dog ticks are larger and common all over Ontario, while blacklegged ticks are smaller with established populations occurring sporadically throughout Ontario. The adults are fairly easy to see on clothing, but the nymphs are much smaller, harder to see and can transmit Lyme disease too. Ticks cannot fly and usually come in contact with people or animals by positioning themselves on tall grass and bushes and grabbing on when you walk by.

Figure 1: Dog tick Figure 2: Blacklegged tick Figure 3: Blacklegged nymph (dark speck on thumb nail)

In Ontario, blacklegged ticks are more commonly found in areas along the north shores of Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, and the St. Lawrence River. Locations with established blacklegged tick populations infected with the Lyme disease agent include: Long Point Provincial Park, Turkey Point Provincial Park, Rondeau Provincial Park, Point Pelee National Park, Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area, Wainfleet Bog Conservation Area, and in the St. Lawrence Islands National Park area. The precise boundaries of these established tick populations are difficult to define but it is anticipated that some of these populations will continue to expand into neighbouring areas. Blacklegged ticks are also known to feed on migratory birds and as a result, they can be transported throughout the province. Therefore, while the potential is low, it is possible for people to encounter blacklegged ticks, or to be infected with Lyme disease from the bite of an infected blacklegged tick almost anywhere in the province.

Federation of Ontario Cottagers’ Associations 201-159 King Street Peterborough, ON K9J 2R8

P: (705) 749-3622 | F: (705) 749-6522 | E: info@foca.on.ca | W: www.foca.on.ca

The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has just developed a provincial campaign to help educate the public on Lyme disease. Attached are the pamphlet and the website which will give some additional information on transmission, testing, treatment and protection against the risk of Lyme disease.

English:

http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/ms/lyme/default.aspx

French:

http://www.health.gov.on.ca/fr/ms/lyme/default.aspx

Personal Protection Measures:

 Wear light coloured clothing (it’s easier to spot them on you)

 Long sleeves and pants

 Pants tucked into your socks (super cool, but they can't get to your skin)

 Apply DEET to pants and shirt

 Check yourself after going out--check clothing first, then when you are home check your skin. A tick that has imbedded itself can be very small (like a mole) so be thorough.

If you have a tick bite or are concerned about Lyme disease, please contact your local health unit or physician for more information.