The Prince Albert region is facing a growing threat from Lyme disease-carrying ticks, according to a University of Saskatchewan researcher. The eTick program, launched in 2020, has revealed a concerning trend: the number of blacklegged ticks in the area has been steadily increasing. Between 2009 and 2017, under a previous surveillance system, Saskatchewan averaged a mere six or seven blacklegged ticks annually. However, the eTick program's data tells a different story. In 2023, researchers received about 30 blacklegged ticks, and in 2024, that number jumped to roughly 50. Despite this increase, researchers still believe that Saskatchewan does not have an established blacklegged tick population. They argue that migratory birds are the culprits, bringing immature ticks from the United States before they mature into adults in Saskatchewan. This explanation is intriguing, but it raises a deeper question: why are these ticks not thriving in other parts of Canada, where established populations are common? One answer might lie in the unique environmental conditions of the Prince Albert region. The fall season, when blacklegged ticks are most active, could be a critical factor. This is a time when people in Saskatchewan might not be as vigilant about tick prevention, thinking only of spring and summer as tick season. This highlights a critical misunderstanding: the risk of Lyme disease is not limited to the warmer months. The eTick program, a valuable tool for residents, allows them to upload photos of ticks that bite them or their pets. Researchers then identify the species and provide information about potential tick-borne diseases. Most ticks submitted in Saskatchewan are American dog ticks, which do not carry Lyme disease, but they can transmit other illnesses like Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Last year, a Saskatchewan resident contracted Rocky Mountain spotted fever after being bitten near Emma Lake, a dangerous disease that can become serious if left untreated. The eTick program also plays a crucial role in diagnosing Lyme disease, which can be challenging in Saskatchewan due to its low-risk perception. Doctors may not consider testing for Lyme disease if they believe there are no blacklegged ticks in the province. The program provides evidence for patients seeking medical attention, confirming the species of tick involved. This growing tick population in the Prince Albert region is a cause for concern, and residents should be aware of the risks. While the overall number of ticks remains low compared to eastern Canada, the potential for Lyme disease transmission is very real. The eTick program is a valuable resource for both residents and researchers, helping to monitor and understand the tick population in Saskatchewan. As the program continues to expand across Canada, it will be essential to keep a close eye on the Prince Albert region, where the threat of Lyme disease is becoming increasingly apparent.
