20 Apr Enjoy the Outdoors Safely by Doing Tick Checks

Posted at 10:10h in Updates by

Spring in Nova Scotia means warmer weather and spending time outdoors in the sun, but to stay safe the province encourages everyone to do tick checks.

Nova Scotia is home to several species of ticks, including blacklegged ticks which can carry the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease. Blacklegged ticks can be identified by the fact that they are smaller than dog or wood ticks and have no white markings on the large part of their bodies. Despite their name, blacklegged ticks do not always have black legs.

Dr. Gaynor Watson-Creed, deputy chief medical officer of Health, wants to remind the public to be on alert for ticks when enjoying nature.

“Ticks can be found throughout the province, in or near woods, shrubs, fallen leaves, long grass, urban parks and gardens, so people should always be aware and take precautions when enjoying the outdoors,” Dr. Watson Creed explained.

“Ticks are very small and their bites are painless so it is important you take steps to protect yourself and your family.”

You can take the following steps to reduce contact with ticks, avoid tick bites, risk of infection and Lyme disease:

  • Wear light coloured, long sleeved shirts and pants to increase visibility.
  • Wear light coloured socks and enclosed shoes while working or playing outside or hiking.
  • Pull socks up over pant legs and tucking in shirts.
  • Spray clothing and exposed skin with an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin and always make sure to follow directions on the label.
  • Check clothing and body carefully for ticks after working or playing outside, especially in the bushes or long grass. Pay special attention to armpits, the back of the knees and the groin or pelvic region.
  • Put clean outdoor clothes in a dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill any remaining ticks.
  • Remove any ticks attached to the skin promptly and safely.
  • Clean the bite area with soap and water or alcohol based sanitizer.
  • Keep grass cut and remove leaf litter to minimize a suitable habitat for ticks on properties.

For more information, including how to remove and dispose of ticks safely, visit www.novascotia.ca/ticksafety.

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