Huron County, ON – With the warmer temperatures returning, so are the bugs. The Huron County Health Unit is reminding people to protect themselves against tick and mosquito bites.
“The risk of becoming ill from a bug bite in Huron County is low,” says Public Health Inspector Mike Park, “but why take a chance?” Precautions to take when spending time outdoors include:
- Wearing light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts, long pants and closed-toed shoes.
- Using an insect repellent approved by Health Canada, and always reading and following the manufacturer’s instructions. Apply insect repellent after applying sunscreen.
- Conducting head-to-toe tick checks. If you find a tick on you, remove it by grasping the tick as close to the skin as possible using tweezers and pulling it straight out slowly but firmly. Place the tick in a container and bring it to your healthcare provider or to the Huron County Health Unit for identification, and testing if needed.
Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria and is spread through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick. A tick must be attached and feeding for at least 24 hours before transmitting the bacteria, so early detection and removal is important. Early symptoms of Lyme disease can include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Fatigue
- An expanding rash that may resemble a bull’s eye
West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Some mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus are more active at dusk and dawn. Most people infected with West Nile virus do not experience any symptoms, however, those who do may experience:
- Fever
- Headache
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Skin rash
- Occasionally, vomiting and nausea
If you experience any of these symptoms, speak to your healthcare provider.
To learn more about Lyme disease or West Nile virus, please visit huronhealthunit.ca
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