Nova Scotia health officer issues warning about blacklegged ticks

<p>HALIFAX – Nova Scotia’s public health officer is warning campers and hikers to take precautions against bites from blacklegged ticks.</p> <p>The insects can transmit Lyme disease, which can cause serious health problems if left untreated.</p> <p>Dr. Robert Strang says the risk of Lyme disease is quite low in most areas of Nova Scotia, but people should take action in areas where blacklegged ticks are established, including parts of Bedford, Shelburne County, Pictou County and Heckmans Island in Lunenburg County.</p> <p>Strang recommends wearing closed-toe shoes, light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and light-coloured pants while working or playing outside or hiking in the woods.</p> <p>He says socks should be pulled up over pant legs, and shirts should be tucked in.</p> <p>As well, Strang says its a good idea to use insect repellent containing DEET.</p> <p>Strang says blacklegged ticks can only transmit the bacterial infection after they have been attached to the skin for about 24 hours.</p>