The provincial government of Nova Scotia has allocated $1.2 million to support ongoing research on tick-borne illnesses at Acadia University’s laboratory. Nicoletta Faraone, head of the Canadian Tick Research and Innovation Centre, emphasized the vital role of this funding in establishing and expanding the lab’s operations.
The allocated funds will primarily be utilized for the lab’s surveillance program, focusing on identifying the types of ticks present in the region, the pathogens they carry, and their response to repellents and attractants.
Ticks, known for transmitting diseases like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis through their bites, pose significant health risks to humans. Faraone highlighted that the lab is equipped with advanced technology to expedite pathogen testing processes.
Faraone expressed that the objective of the research is to enhance understanding of ticks and enhance preparedness to minimize exposure to tick bites.
The funding originates from Research Nova Scotia’s Focused Research Initiative, which is financially supported by the Department of Advanced Education.
Stefan Leslie, CEO of Research Nova Scotia, emphasized the importance of practical research to address the increasing challenges posed by tick-borne diseases for both humans and animals.
-
Tick-borne illness on the rise in Nova Scotia
-
N.S. vet clinics noticing rise in one tick-borne disease
Recent data from the Public Health Agency of Canada revealed a significant number of Lyme disease cases across the country, with Nova Scotia accounting for 40% of the reported cases in 2024.
Additionally, cases of other tick-borne illnesses such as anaplasmosis are on the rise, indicating a growing public health concern.
The federal government is also contributing $455,000 to the project through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, according to Acadia University.
The additional funding will enable the lab to continue its research efforts, including the development of a tick-breeding program.
Previously reliant on purchasing ticks from a facility in Oklahoma, Acadia’s lab will now have its own tick-breeding
