‘No longer the full picture’: Health unit warns of changing tick risks

A sign advising hikers of Ticks is shown on a trail in the woods. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes

Ticks can appear in unexpected places, and Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health is urging people to reconsider when and where they may be at risk.

The health unit recently updated some of its guidelines, warning that these creepy crawlers are no longer limited to wooded trails and peak summer weather.

“People are often most vigilant about ticks around long grass and during summer, but that is no longer the full picture,” said Phil Wong, director of operations, health protection, WDG Public Health. “As ticks become more prevalent in the community, we want residents to rethink tick risks and make sure they take the proper precautions.”

Ticks can thrive in different habitats

One of the biggest changes in messaging focuses on the season. Ticks can pose a risk at any time.

According to experts, Blacklegged ticks, which can carry Lyme disease, may be present whenever temperatures spike above zero degrees Celsius. That means residents could come across ticks during early spring, late fall and even mild winter days.

The health unit also notes that ticks can be found in different environments. While blacklegged ticks prefer wooded areas, leaf litter and shaded trail edges, American dog ticks are more common in grassy fields and meadows.

It is important to note that wildlife and pets can carry these external parasites into homes and other outdoor spaces.

Residents who encounter ticks are being directed to an online identification tool.

“Proper identification is an important first step in understanding tick risks. While WDG Public Health no longer accepts ticks for lab testing, an online photo submission tool is available to the community. Residents can submit a clear photo and receive timely identification and public health guidance,” stated the health unit in a release.

WDG Public Health is encouraging people to do full-body tick checks after outdoor activities, wear light-coloured clothing and use a repellent that contains DEET.