Addressing Rising Tick Populations to Protect Communities

As outdoor activities increase during warmer months, the importance of checking for ticks becomes a routine safety measure for hikers, dog walkers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Recent research from Brock University highlights the growing concern over expanding tick populations in Ontario, particularly the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis), known for transmitting Lyme disease. Researchers are actively monitoring local tick populations across six areas in Niagara, collecting and testing them for known pathogens.

These ticks have a complex two-year lifecycle involving four stages: eggs, larvae, nymphs, and adults. Currently, nymphs and adults are most active, with scientists focusing on nymphs due to their smaller size and higher potential for unnoticed attachment. Adult ticks are about the size of sesame seeds, while nymphs are only the size of poppy seeds, making detection during outdoor activities challenging.

The rapid expansion of tick populations across Ontario is linked to climate change, warmer temperatures, and increasing deer and mouse populations, which serve as hosts during various tick life stages. A study from 2009 identified blacklegged ticks in only four out of 30 surveyed sites; however, current findings indicate these ticks are now widespread throughout the province, raising significant public health concerns.

Prevention remains key: timely removal of attached ticks significantly reduces the risk of disease transmission. Using forceps or tweezers to gently and steadily extract the tick near the skin's surface is recommended to avoid damaging it or leaving mouthparts behind. It is also advisable not to burn or smother the tick.

Researchers are also investigating other tick species such as the American dog tick and groundhog tick, which can carry different pathogens. In addition to Lyme disease, testing includes pathogens responsible for anaplasmosis, babesiosis, Powassan virus, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tick-borne relapsing fever. Although these diseases are less common than Lyme disease, their prevalence appears to be increasing.

The ongoing research aims to provide the community with better awareness and understanding of tick-related risks. Results are expected mid-summer, with plans to share findings and educate the public on effective prevention measures. This work exemplifies the importance of surveillance in managing emerging vector-borne health threats and protecting community health.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-communities-safe-populations.html