As the weather warms up and spring approaches, residents of Saskatchewan are being reminded to take precautions against ticks.
According to health officials, tick season typically runs from April to October, with the peak activity occurring in May and June. Ticks are small, blood-sucking insects that can carry diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and anaplasmosis.
To protect against tick bites, experts recommend wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants when spending time outdoors, tucking pants into socks, and using insect repellent containing DEET. It is also important to check for ticks after spending time in wooded or grassy areas, as well as on pets and clothing.
If a tick is found, it should be removed as soon as possible using tweezers, grasping the tick as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight out. The area should then be cleaned with soap and water.
Symptoms of tick-borne illnesses can include fever, headache, fatigue, and a rash. If you experience any of these symptoms after a tick bite, it is important to seek medical attention.
While ticks can be a concern, it is important to not let fear prevent you from enjoying the outdoors. By taking precautions and being aware of the risks, you can still enjoy all that Saskatchewan has to offer this spring and summer.
