Manitobans are asked to be on the lookout for the blacklegged tick. (FILE)
Manitoba has another season. And it’s nothing to laugh about.
Today during a Conservative Government of Manitoba announcement, Minister Cameron Friesen urged the public to check themselves for blacklegged ticks. The ticks are active from May until the first permanent snowfall.
The blacklegged tick carries diseases such as anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Lyme disease.
The Minister of Health, Seniors and Active Living, Cameron Friesen, announced the Conservatives are establishing a collaborative care service to improve health services for people with late symptoms of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.
“As human cases of Lyme disease increase in Manitoba and across the country, our government is committed to remaining at the forefront of tick-borne disease research, response and advocate engagement,” stated Minister Friesen.
The collaborative care service will connect people affected by tick-borne illnesses and their health care provider – including specialists – to better streamline and address their care. This program will receive $240,000 annually, and it’s expected to start this fall.
Lyme disease is a chronic disease, and it’s difficult to diagnose because there are multiple symptoms.
Manitobans are encouraged to wear repellant and to check themselves after outdoor activities. They can also help map the ticks with the Tick Checker at https://forms.gov.mb.ca/tickSubmission/
To learn more about blacklegged ticks, tick-borne diseases, and prevention visit:
www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/tickborne/
www.gov.mb.ca/health/publichealth/cdc/tickborne/surveillance.html
–Staff
