A first for Thunder Bay, as the District Health Unit is reporting a tick found recently has tested positive for Lyme Disease. They say it was found on a dog in the city limits. Medical Officer of Health, Henry Kurban, says it's the first positive test for the disease since the Unit started monitoring and testing ticks in 2005. He says it was submitted last week. Kurban says with the warmer spring, the tick population in the district has appeared earlier that usual. He encourages people to prevent coming into contact with ticks to reduce the risk of a bite. That includes:• Staying clear of areas with tall grass; they are common areas to find ticks.
• Wear light coloured clothing to make it easier to see ticks.
• Cover up by tucking pants into socks and wearing long sleeves.
• Check for ticks before going indoors; don’t forget your pets.
• Use insect repellants with DEET; follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
