CKPHU Initiates Tick Identification Campaign Amid Rising Lyme Disease Risks

As temperatures rise in Ontario, the Chatham-Kent Public Health Unit (CKPHU) has launched a campaign aimed at educating the public about tick identification and the associated health risks, particularly Lyme disease. According to Kurt Clemons, a Public Health Inspector with CKPHU, tick activity has significantly increased in the region, raising concerns about the spread of tick-borne illnesses. 'The warmer weather means tick season is upon us, and tick activity in Ontario is on the rise,' Clemons stated on June 25, 2025.

Chatham-Kent is home to various tick species, including the American dog tick and the blacklegged tick, which is of particular concern due to its role in transmitting Lyme disease. Clemons elaborated, 'Although whether they're well-established populations or not is still sort of up for debate.' The blacklegged tick is predominantly found in areas such as Rondeau Provincial Park and a wooded region near Thamesville.

The CKPHU has noted a troubling trend: the number of Lyme disease cases reported in humans has been increasing across Ontario and Canada for several years. 'Tick activity across Ontario is on the rise, and we have been observing more tick activity in various locations as well,' Clemons remarked.

To protect against Lyme disease, the health unit recommends several preventive measures. Individuals are advised to wear insect repellent containing DEET or Icaridin, don long sleeves and pants, avoid traversing tall grass, shower soon after outdoor activities, and conduct thorough tick checks on themselves.

If a tick is found attached to the skin, prompt removal is crucial. 'Remove it using fine-tip tweezers, getting as close to the mouth as possible and pulling directly away from your skin,' advised Clemons. Individuals are encouraged to collect the tick in a container and bring it to CKPHU, located at 177 King Street East, for identification and further instructions.

In cases where a blacklegged tick has been attached for over 24 hours, public health officials will likely recommend consultation with a healthcare provider. Clemons noted, 'There’s really strong evidence that one dose of antibiotics will significantly reduce your chance of developing the illness if you get there within 72 hours after that exposure.'

CKPHU has been proactive in monitoring ticks in areas where there are reports of blacklegged ticks and sends these specimens for Lyme disease testing. This initiative assists the province in identifying new areas at risk for Lyme disease. For more information on tick safety and identification, residents can visit the CKPHU website at www.ckpublichealth.com/thegreatoutdoors.

As climate change continues to affect global weather patterns, experts, including Dr. Alice Thompson, an epidemiologist at the University of Toronto, warn that tick populations may expand into new regions, further complicating public health efforts. Dr. Thompson stated, 'As we see warmer temperatures, ticks are likely to thrive in areas that were previously unsuitable for them, increasing the risk of Lyme disease outbreaks.' The CKPHU's efforts to inform the public about tick prevention and management are vital in mitigating these risks as tick season progresses in Ontario.