Tick season is upon us, and many people are concerned about the risk of getting Lyme disease. Luckily in Saskatchewan the risk of contracting Lyme disease is very low. This is because almost all ticks found in Saskatchewan are American dog ticks which are not capable of transmitting Lyme disease. The most common species of tick that transmits Lyme disease is the blacklegged tick which is common in other parts of Canada, but not in Saskatchewan.

You can help with tick surveillance by submitting your photos to eTick – The ticks should be stored in a secure container until identification is received in case they need to be sent in for testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do to prevent Lyme Disease?
• Avoid areas where ticks are abundant
• Wear protective clothing
• Use DEET products on skin
• After outdoor activities check for ticks and have a bath or shower
• Use the highest heat setting on the dryer to dry clothes
• Antibiotic prophylaxis might be indicated following a high-risk tick bite
• If you get a bite, remove the tick, submit a picture to eTick - and place it in a secure container until it is identified.

Should I make an appointment to see my doctor after a tick bite?
You should see your doctor if the site of the bite appears to be infected or if within 7 days of the bite you develop a rash that grows to greater than 5cm (about 2 inches) in diameter, flu-like symptoms or swollen lymph nodes.

Can my pharmacist help me to prevent Lyme Disease?
Yes. Your Lake Country Co-op Pharmacist can provide advice on preventing Lyme disease and help you to determine when you should see your doctor. If you get a high-risk tick bite, your pharmacist may be able to prescribe antibiotic prophylaxis if indicated.

Where can I get more information?
The eTick – website is a great place to go for further information.

Source of information: MedSask Drug Information Service, University of Saskatchewan