Lyme Disease in Estrie: Stable Rates, Vigilant Prevention
Estrie, Quebec, a region known for its picturesque landscapes, continues to grapple with the presence of Lyme disease.While the area typically accounts for a important portion of the province’s cases, recent data suggests a period of stability amidst ongoing concerns.
2024: A Snapshot of Lyme Disease in Estrie
In 2024, Estrie residents accounted for 343 identified cases of Lyme disease, representing 41% of the total cases reported in Quebec. This figure underscores the region’s vulnerability to the tick-borne illness.
Stable Rates Despite Regional Prevalence
Despite Estrie historically contributing 60% of Quebec’s Lyme disease cases during the summer season, health officials report a stabilization in recent years.
“The rates are stable [en Estrie] for 2-3 years,”
Dr. Geneviève Baron, Public Health Physician, CIUSSS in Estrie-Chus
This stability offers a glimmer of hope, but vigilance remains crucial.
Geographic Distribution of Tick Bites
ticks are present throughout Estrie, but the risk of bites varies by location. The granite region, characterized by higher altitudes, experiences fewer bites. In contrast, Pommeraie and Haute-yamaska accounted for 78% of lyme disease cases within Estrie last year.
Did you know? Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks.
early Detection: A Positive Trend
Data from the beginning of 2025 shows 33 cases declared, slightly fewer than the 37 cases reported during the same period last year.Encouragingly, a significant portion of those seeking medical attention after a tick bite are diagnosed with early and localized Lyme disease.
“This is really good news that people show up earlier, it allows us to administer treatment quickly,”
Dr. Geneviève Baron, Public Health Physician, CIUSSS in Estrie-Chus
Early treatment is critical in preventing the progression of Lyme disease.
Research and Long-Term Outlook
The University of Sherbrooke has established a new research chair dedicated to studying pathogens transmitted by ticks,including Lyme disease. Research indicates that global warming is contributing to the persistence of the disease, emphasizing the need for enhanced prevention and post-bite protocols.
Prevention: A Key Strategy
Health officials stress the importance of proactive measures to protect against tick bites.
“It is indeed sure that you have to stay on the lookout and adopt preventive behavior,”
Dr. Geneviève Baron, Public Health Physician, CIUSSS in Estrie-Chus
Dr. Baron suggests that tick protection should become as routine as applying sunscreen, notably for residents of Estrie.
Pro Tip: When spending time outdoors,wear light-colored clothing to easily spot ticks,use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin,and conduct thorough tick checks upon returning indoors.
