Lyme disease has become one of the hot topics for discussion at public health units. Many ticks have been brought into the Brant County Health Unit for analysis purposes. But just one out of more than 100 submitted has been found to be black-legged tick.

Last year, the Brant County Health Unit has handled three reported cases of Lyme disease. More number of ticks is being tested because of increased awareness about Lyme disease. Ruth Gratton, the area’s manager of infectious disease, said that black-legged tick is the only one that can spread Lyme disease. Experts said that the ticks are found around the north shores of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. But they can travel inland as well by just attaching themselves to migratory birds.

After detaching from the birds, they may find a new feeding source in humans. Gratton said that it is not necessary that you will come to know of being bitten. There have been instances where people have noticed of ticks on their body after many days.

Lyme disease’s symptoms take time to appear. Experts have affirmed that they may take a month which includes a mild rash, joint pain, fatigue, muscle aches and slight fever. It is important to treat the disease with antibiotics, as otherwise the disease can progress and lead to severe neurological symptoms.

“If symptoms do develop, we send them along to their doctor for further consultation”, said Brenda Miller, the manager of infection control at Region of Waterloo Public Health. To cut the risk of tick bites, people should stay away from long grass, use insect repellant and wear full sleeves shirt and full pants. Experts have also suggested not to keep backpack on a grassy area.