Tick season is in full swing across Northern BC and one organization is reminding to take care while enjoying the outdoors.
The Invasive Species of British Columbia says the two main ticks to look out for are the western black legged tick and the Rocky Mountain wood tick.
Director, Gail Wallen says tick season is lasting longer than in years past due to climate change.
“We seem to be getting a longer season earlier than we used to. That applies to native species and to invasive species because the warmer winters aren’t really killing them off because the species couldn’t handle the cold. Now, we don’t have them as often or as long and that is making a difference.”
Wallen adds if you get bitten by a tick, a range of symptoms from the bite may follow.
“There is more and more Lyme Disease being diagnosed these days whether its increased awareness around them or there is more incidents, it is a combination. Ultimately, we have to worry about the rocky-mountain spotted fevers.”
“If you are in the outdoors, you want to make sure your pant legs are closed, making sure you don’t get any (ticks) on your body. Do a tick check at the end of the day or at different points to make sure you don’t have ticks hiding underneath your hairline.”
Other symptoms include a rash, fever, fatigue, headaches, aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
Residents can also download the ETick app for more information, by clicking here.
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