Ontarians heading outdoors this summer are likely well-versed on the potential risk of Lyme disease that comes with a tick bite.
CTV News Toronto spoke with Dr. Richard Mather, PHO’s public health physician lead for vector-borne diseases, to learn more about the pathogens creeping up in Ontario and how people can protect themselves.Mather explained that during early infection, it’s hard to distinguish between anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Lyme disease, because all three can cause flu-like symptoms, including fevers, chills, muscle aches and a headache.
The geographic distribution of anaplasmosis and babesiosis cases in Ontario for 2023 is seen in these images. If you suspect a tick has been attached to your body for more than 24 hours, the minimum amount of time required for the transmission of Lyme disease, or you’re developing symptoms, Mather suggests contacting your local health-care to discuss potential for medication to prevent Lyme disease.
While Mather said he couldn’t speak to the specific reasons why anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Powasson virus were listed as diseases of public health significance by the Ontario’s health ministry last July, he said there has been an increase in the number of cases in areas surrounding Ontario. So far, in 2024, Ontario has seen one case of babesiosis and no cases of anaplasmosis or Powassan virus. Meanwhile, 102 cases of Lyme disease have been confirmed. In 2023, there were 1,795 confirmed or probable cases of Lyme disease.Officials say protecting yourself against anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Powassan virus comes down to prevention.
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