The Leeds, Grenville & Lanark District Health Unit reports Lyme disease cases are down. There were 52 cases of Lyme disease across the region in 2016. That figure jumped to 219 cases in 2017. A total of 70 cases have been reported to the health unit so far this year.
Dr. Paula Stewart says the drop is because of the weather. She says in 2017 there was lots of rain, but this summer was dry, similar to 2016. Dr. Stewart says ticks, which spread the disease, need moisture or else they dry up.
Ticks are still active in the fall, as females look for food before laying eggs. Dr. Stewart says Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria that initially leads to a flu-like illness, including fever and aches. She says symptoms can start anywhere from 3 to 30 days after the bite.
Early diagnosis based on symptoms can prevent disseminated Lyme disease, which can lead to more serious problems, such as rashes and fatigue.
The best way to protect yourself is to check your body after being outside in wooded areas. Using insect repellent and showering after being out in the bush can also prevent tick bites. People with pets should also be checking their animals regularly. For more information, contact the health unit directly by calling 613-258-5941.