Press Release
Due to changes in lab protocols, as of Oct. 1, the Northwestern Health Unit only will be accepting tick submissions from ticks found on humans.
You can bring in any suspect black-legged ticks found on humans to the health unit to be assessed and/or tested for Lyme disease.
Lyme disease is an infection spread by bacteria found in black-legged ticks (deer ticks).
The Northwestern Health Unit tracks medically-confirmed Lyme disease in the area and helps people learn how to reduce their risk of getting it.
Tick identification cards are available from the health unit that shows the difference between wood ticks and the black-legged (deer) tick that can carry Lyme disease.
You also can get a “tick kit” that includes information and a tool to help remove ticks that are stuck in the skin.
If the tick was found on a human, and is a black-legged (deer) tick, save it alive in a container with a lid.
The health unit will test it for Lyme disease.
Removing ticks
Fast removal of ticks will help to prevent infection.
Follow these tips to remove ticks:
•Grasp the tick with tweezers as close to the skin as possible.
•Pull it straight out, gently but firmly.
•Don’t squeeze the tick.
•Don’t put anything on the tick or try to burn it off.
•Wash the area with soap and water once removed.
