What to know to stay safe from ticks this summer

Ticks are becoming more common in Canada as warmer temperatures help them spread beyond their usual habitats. In a CBC interview, cardiologist and epidemiologist Dr. Christopher Labos explained how people can reduce the risk of tick bites and tickborne illness. He said the best protection includes wearing long pants and sleeves, tucking pants into socks when walking offtrail, and using a DEETbased insect repellent. He also recommended checking your skin after being outdoors and putting clothes in the dryer to help remove any ticks. If you find a tick, experts advise using tweezers to pull it straight out without twisting. People should seek medical advice if part of the tick remains or if symptoms appear in the following days or weeks. Lyme disease can cause nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue and muscle aches, but a spreading red rash is often a key sign. Treatment is typically antibiotics, and doctors warn there is no evidence supporting years of antibiotic use for Lyme disease.