American dog tick. (Submitted photo/wiki commons)

By Michael Joel-Hansen

Insect Protection

Province reminding people to take steps to protect against ticks

Jun 3, 2020 | 3:38 PM

The provincial government wants people to remember they need to be aware ticks.

Saskatchewan’s deputy chief medical health officer, Dr. Denise Werker said people should know the insects can pose a potential health risk.

“All ticks have the possibility of carrying diseases,” she said.

When it comes to lyme disease, Werker said the black legged tick can carry the bug, which can cause the disease. She added the black legged tick is not considered to be common in Saskatchewan. The most prevalent kind in the province is the dog tick.

The deputy chief medical health officer said if people find a tick and are unsure of what kind it is they are encouraged to reach out to provincial health officials.

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“We are happy to test that tick, especially if you think it’s a black legged tick,” she said.

Due to the possible health risks, Werker said it is important people remember to take precautions to protect against the insects. This includes making sure to look over themselves or their children for ticks and inspecting their outdoor gear after returning from the outdoors.

In regards to prevention, Werker explained they recommend people wear long pant and clothing, while using repellant with DEET or picaridin in it.

Werker said the public can take steps to protect their pets, specifically dogs as there is medication available to stop the insects from latching on.

“If you haven’t seen your vet and talked about medication for your dog, you might want to do that,” she said.

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MichaelJoel.Hansen@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @mjhskcdn