Lambton Public Health (LPH) is encouraging residents to take steps in preventing tick and mosquito bites when enjoying the outdoors.
Preventative measures include using insect repellant, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants (when appropriate), checking for bugs during and after outdoor activities, and reducing standing water to limit mosquitoes from breeding.
The health unit conducts regular surveillance for Lyme disease and West Nile Virus.
High-risk areas for Lyme disease have been identified at Pinery Provincial Park and a 20 kilometre surrounding area, including Port Franks.
Lyme disease spreads by the bite of an infected black-legged (deer) tick, which is about the size of a sesame seed. An LPH media release said ticks live in wooded areas and fields and attach themselves to a person or animal that brushes against plants, bushes, or tall grass.
Meanwhile, West Nile Virus is spread by the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn.
Further details about mosquito and tick testing can be found on the health unit's website.
