Don’t Be Bugged! Be Prepared!

By Heather Bywaters RN PHN

Your family has probably spent much time outside lately. Perhaps you have been examining and learning about a variety of bugs. Most are harmless, but some insect bites can cause pain, itchiness and transmit disease.

Certain types of mosquitoes can pass on West Nile Virus after biting an infected animal or bird.
Blacklegged ticks (deer ticks) can transmit Lyme Disease after feeding on infected small animals or birds.

Mosquitoes:

Mosquitoes are most active at the beginning and end of day (sunrise and sunset). Minimize your time outdoors at those times.
Wear loose-fitting, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, shoes and socks. Tuck pant legs into your socks for extra protection. Choose light colours which are less attractive to insects. Consider using mosquito netting.
Dump standing water regularly that collects in toys, empty flowerpots, construction materials, etc. If you leave out water for birds or pets, change it a few times a week. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water.
Clean up debris under trees, plants and bushes on your property, as well as keeping them trimmed to decrease the places where adult mosquitoes hide.
Ensure window and door screens are in good repair.

Ticks:

Ticks are most likely to be found along trails, in long grass and the woods.
After outdoor walks, check everyone, including pets, for ticks, especially the groin, scalp and armpit areas.
Bathe or shower within two hours of being outside.

If you find a tick, remove it using the method found here: healthunit.com/lyme-prevention-personal-protection. Removal within 24 hours stops Lyme disease from being transmitted.

To submit a tick for identification, go to: etick.ca

Find out what insect repellents have been approved for use in Canada because they are safe and effective.

Do not use insect repellent on a child younger than 6 months of age. Use mosquito netting over a stroller and supervise for safety.
Know what products to use for what age groups and how often to safely re-apply.
Avoid eyes, mouth and hands.
Wash hands and exposed skin well after being outside.

Want to know more? https://www.healthunit.com/vector-borne-diseases

Heather Bywaters RN PHN
Middlesex-London Health Unit
For the Middlesex-London Community Early Years Partnership