Interior Health Provides Guide for Tick Season

Interior Health has released a helpful guide to prepare the community for the upcoming tick season this spring. As the weather warms up and more people head outdoors, the regional health authority is reminding everyone to take precautions to avoid tick bites and safely remove them if necessary.

Ticks are small insects that can transmit diseases through their bites, as they feed on the blood of humans and animals. Interior Health has provided a detailed list of tips and tricks on their website to help people protect themselves from tick-related illnesses.

Dr. Fatemeh Sabet, a medical health officer at Interior Health, emphasizes the importance of taking preventive measures such as covering up before going outdoors and checking for ticks after returning from outdoor activities. While most tick bites do not result in illness, it is essential to clean any bite to prevent infection.

Some other precautions recommended by Interior Health include walking on clear trails, wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and regularly checking for ticks on pets. If a tick is found, it should be carefully removed using needle-nose tweezers and the area should be cleaned with soap and water.

Interior Health also warns about the presence of Lyme disease-carrying ticks in coastal areas of B.C. and advises individuals with symptoms of Lyme disease to see a physician promptly. The most common tick in the region is the wood tick, which does not carry the Lyme disease bacteria but can transmit other diseases.

It is important to be aware of the symptoms of tick-borne infections, which can include fever, headache, muscle pain, and rash. If symptoms persist after a tick bite, seeking medical attention is recommended.

As tick season approaches, Interior Health’s guide serves as a valuable resource for the community to stay safe and healthy while enjoying the outdoors. Remember to take necessary precautions, check for ticks regularly, and seek medical help if needed.