Range Expansion of Ixodes scapularis and Borrelia burgdorferi in Ontario, Canada, from 2017 to 2019

Author:

Robinson, EL, Jardine, CM, Koffi, JK, Russell, CB, Lindsay, LR, Dibernardo, A, and Clow, KM

Publication type:

Journal Article

Publication date:

2022-06

Journal/Series title:

Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis.

URL:

https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/vbz.2022.0015?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=...

Abstract:

The objectives of this research were to examine spatial and temporal patterns of I. scapularis and its pathogens from 2017 to 2019 in southwestern, eastern, and central Ontario, and to explore patterns of B. burgdorferi invasion. Tick and pathogen hotspots were identified in eastern Ontario in 2017 and 2018, respectively. These findings provide additional evidence on the range expansion and population establishment of I. scapularis in Ontario and help generate hypotheses on the invasion of B. burgdorferi in Ontario. Ongoing public health surveillance is critical to monitor changes in I. scapularis and its pathogens in Ontario.