Many of us are spending time outdoors in the warm weather, and the Thunder Bay District Health Unit is advising you to be wary of ticks.
Recently, the city was confirmed as a risk area for Lyme disease, and health unit spokesperson Matt Bradica reminds you to take steps like wearing long-sleeved shirts in the bush, and tucking your pants into your socks.
“On any exposed areas of skin, we recommend you apply an insect repellent that contains Deet or picaridin.”
Bradica says it’s almost certain that if you go for a walk in the woods that ticks will attach themselves to you.
He reminds you to check yourself and your pets thoroughly for ticks after being outside.
Health Unit officials say you may want to see a doctor if a tick has been on you for more than 24 hours.
Some symptoms of Lyme disease include a bulls-eye rash, a mild fever, and you might even think you are getting the flu.
If the disease is allowed to progress, you could face joint pain, immune problems, and muscle paralysis to your face commonly known as Bell’s palsy.
