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Ticks Are Back

Tuesday, 23 June 2020 08:58

Blacklegged tick (stock photo)

With the warmer weather comes the return of ticks. They can range from the size of a pinhead to the size of a watermelon seed, and even larger if they have been feeding.

OXFORD COUNTY - As we emerge from COVID-19 lockdown to enjoy the great outdoors this summer, health officials are sending out reminders to be on alert for ticks.

The blacklegged or deer ticks that can carry various bacterial diseases, including Lyme disease, are becoming more common as the climate becomes warmer.

Some tick tips for the summer;

- Don’t walk with bare legs in tall grass, wooded areas or marshlands

- Wear long sleeves, pants and fully closed boots/ shoes

- Tuck your pants into your socks

- Wear light-coloured clothing to spot ticks easier

- Wear a bug repellent with Deet

- Do a “tick check” after walking in an area where you may come in contact with a tick

- Shower and towel off to remove any ticks that might not be attached, and then check underarms, neck and groin area


It is important to remember that ticks can be tiny.  They can range from the size of a pinhead to the size of a watermelon seed, and even larger if they have been feeding.

Knowing the Lyme Disease hot spot areas is important so you can avoid them as much as possible.  Click here for the Public Health Ontario Map.

If you have had a tick attach itself, determining the kind of tick can help to know your risk of getting Lyme disease. Ticks can be submitted online or in-person for identification. Only blacklegged ticks removed from humans will be tested for Lyme disease through the health department.  

For more information, including tips on how to remove a tick, click here.  

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