First Lyme disease case of the year diagnosed in London area, health officials warn of early tick season
It is not clear when the individual contracted the disease
The Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) is reporting the first diagnosed case of human Lyme disease has been diagnosed in an adult in Middlesex County.
Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria transmitted by bites of black-legged ticks, which are also known as deer ticks. Symptoms can appear if the tick has been attached for more than 24 hours, including a bull's eye rash, headache, fever or chills, fatigue and muscle and joint pain. If left untreated it can affect the joints, heart and nervous system resulting in long-term health issues.
"It is typical for us to get several dozen Lyme disease cases confirmed every year," said Dr. Joanne Kearon, the MLHU's associate medical officer of health. "However, this is earlier than normal, which is why we decided to remind people that it already is tick season."
Kearon could not confirm exactly how or where the individual came into contact with the tick, but confirmed the Middlesex London region is considered an established risk area for black-legged ticks. Residents are advised to be aware of the potential for ticks in grassy or wooded areas and check themselves afterwards.
Ticks vary in species and not all of them carry Lyme disease, said Kearon. They should be removed immediately if found and identified through either the health unit or by submitting a photo to etick.ca. Antibiotic treatment is available and the sooner that treatment begins, the better the chance of recovery.
More ticks have been spotted earlier in other parts of Ontario this year. Researchers attribute the increase to warmer weather. There are several other diseases that ticks carry, including anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Powassan virus.
Outdoor enthusiasts can protect themselves by wearing long sleeves and long pants tucked into socks, and using insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin on clothing and exposed skin. Tick checks should be performed on both humans and pets after leaving areas where ticks may live.