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July 27, 2024 — Canada is witnessing a notable increase in tick-borne illnesses, a trend driven by expanding tick populations and changing environmental conditions. Diseases once confined to the United States are now making their way north, raising new concerns for public health officials and clinicians alike.
Emergence and Spread of Tick-Borne Diseases
Among the tick-borne diseases gaining prominence in Canada are Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and Powassan virus. Lyme disease remains the most prevalent, but experts emphasize the importance of awareness for other illnesses as well. Dr. Heather Coatsworth, a research scientist at the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg, highlighted the growing prevalence of anaplasmosis, especially in Nova Scotia and Ontario. Babesiosis, though increasing more slowly, is also becoming more common, with 40 reported cases in Ontario in 2023. Powassan virus, while rarer, poses severe risks, including encephalitis and a high fatality rate of approximately 10% among those who develop brain or spinal cord infections.
Climate Change and Urbanization: Key Factors
The rising incidence of tick-borne illnesses is closely linked to climate change and increased human encroachment into wildlife areas. Dr. Gerald Evans, chair of the Division of Infectious Diseases at Queen’s University, pointed out that milder winters, driven by climate change, have enabled tick populations to thrive and expand northward. Additionally, more Canadians living near wildlife areas have heightened their exposure to ticks. Ticks thrive on small mammals, which are abundant in these areas, increasing the likelihood of tick bites.
Enhanced Surveillance and Diagnostic Capabilities
Recent advancements in surveillance and diagnostic testing have improved the detection of tick-borne diseases. The Canadian government has bolstered its diagnostic infrastructure, with reliable testing available at facilities like the National Microbiology Laboratory. Surveillance methods include “tick dragging” to collect and test ticks for pathogens and a citizen science project called eTick, which allows the public to submit tick photos for identification by entomologists.
Dr. Muhammad Morshed of the British Columbia Centre for Disease Control noted that while most ticks are not infectious, those carrying pathogens need to be on the host for at least 16-24 hours to transmit disease. Therefore, prompt removal of ticks is crucial in preventing infections.
Treatment and Prevention Strategies
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing tick-borne illnesses effectively. Lyme disease, for instance, can be treated with antibiotics if caught in its early stages, preventing more severe symptoms. Anaplasmosis is treated with doxycycline, while babesiosis requires a combination of azithromycin and atovaquone. Powassan virus, however, lacks specific treatments, making prevention even more critical.
Preventive measures include wearing protective clothing, using insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and conducting thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors. Light-colored clothing can help spot ticks more easily, and quick removal of attached ticks can significantly reduce the risk of disease transmission.
As tick-borne illnesses become more common, it is crucial for both healthcare providers and the public to stay informed and proactive in prevention and early treatment strategies. The rise in cases underscores the need for continued vigilance and adaptation to changing environmental conditions.
For more information on tick-borne diseases and preventive measures, visit the National Microbiology Laboratory or consult with local public health authorities.
