Just because autumn is slowly settling over the Vaudreuil-Soulanges region doesn't mean that ticks are no longer a danger. They don't disappear with the cooler weather. On the contrary, they remain active until the first frosts,” reminds the Direction de santé publique de la Montérégie. 

Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium transmitted by the bite of an infected tick. It's a disease that needs to be taken seriously, as it can lead to serious consequences such as arthritis or damage to the nervous system if not treated in time. Fortunately, it's easy to protect yourself against tick bites, says the regional authority. 

Where are ticks found? Tick bites can occur anywhere in the Montérégie region, mainly in :

- woodlands, forests, undergrowth, shrubs and brush;

- tall grass, uncultivated land;

- gardens near woods, shrubs, brush or tall grass. 

Simple measures to protect yourself 

Adopting simple, accessible preventive measures can considerably reduce the risk of being bitten or developing the disease. These measures are particularly important when preparing for or following outdoor activities in wooded areas or on tick-prone ground (tall grass, shrubs, proximity to wooded areas, hedges or mats of dead leaves on the ground). Some are also recommended for activities in contact with plants, if you live in a municipality where ticks are abundant.

 Before and during the activity: 

The objective is to limit direct contact with ticks. We therefore recommend that you:

- Wear clothing that covers the skin;

- apply insect repellent containing DEET (20-30%) or icaridine (10-20%), following the manufacturer's instructions. Insect repellents containing other ingredients are not very effective at repelling ticks (more info: Québec.ca);

- stay on trails and avoid contact with vegetation. 

After an activity or at the end of the day: 

As the risk of developing Lyme disease increases when a tick remains attached for more than 24 hours, it is advisable to remove it quickly in the event of a bite.

Please note: tick bites are not painful. Perhaps you've been unknowingly bitten?

- Examine your whole body thoroughly.

- Examine children's bodies.

- Examine pets.

- Remove any visible ticks as quickly as possible.

- Take a shower or bath (or swim).

- Change clothes.

- Wash clothes or put them in the dryer or in the sun.

Even if you haven't found a tick, watch out for reddening of the skin or fever within 30 days, or other unusual symptoms within the next year. 

In the event of symptoms, consult a doctor.  

Note that certain habitats are less favorable to tick exposure:

- manicured lawns;

- ornamental vegetation;

- urbanized areas, concrete, asphalt, gravel, wood or mulch surfaces.

For information on how to deal with tick bites and the symptoms associated with Lyme disease, visit the Portail Santé Montérégie of the Ministère du Québec.