Durham Region is seeing a rise in Lyme disease cases. In 2024, there were 155 confirmed human cases—up from 110 in 2023.
Durham Region Health Department is reminding residents to be cautious about tick bites, which can transmit Lyme disease.
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick. These ticks are found throughout Durham Region, particularly in grassy, brushy, and wooded areas. While not all ticks carry Lyme disease, the risk is highest in the spring and early summer when ticks are most active—especially the tiny nymph stage, which can be difficult to detect.
According to the Health Department, early detection and prompt removal of ticks is essential for preventing the disease.
Symptoms of Lyme disease can appear anywhere from a few days to a month after a bite. They include fever, chills, fatigue, headache, muscle or joint pain, a stiff neck, swollen lymph nodes, and a red rash that may resemble a bull’s-eye. If left untreated, the disease can lead to serious complications involving the heart, nervous system, and joints. However, early treatment with antibiotics is typically effective.
To reduce the risk of tick exposure, Durham Region recommends the following precautions:
- Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed footwear.
- Tuck pants into socks and choose light-coloured clothing to spot ticks more easily.
- Use insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin on exposed skin and clothing.
- Shower within one to two hours of returning indoors and thoroughly check for ticks.
- Check pets regularly and speak to a veterinarian about protective measures.
For more information or to sign up for tick-related health updates, visit durham.ca/Ticks or contact the Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.
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