A Hub of Activity and Inquiry

Under a bright May sun, Michel-chartrand Park in Longueuil is bustling with activity. Walkers, runners, and families enjoying picnics are a common sight. However, a particular point of interest draws many: the health parkS data stand, a focal point for an innovative research project.

Unveiling the Research: A Holistic approach to Health

Mélanie Dappen-Couture, the project coordinator, explains the study’s comprehensive scope: The research project studies health, both ecosystems, animals and users who frequent the park. This initiative underscores the growing recognition of the interconnectedness between environmental health, animal well-being, and human health, a concept increasingly vital in urban planning and public health strategies.

Interactive Engagement: Learning Through Discovery

The health park stand offers visitors a hands-on learning experience. Curious minds gather to examine specimens, such as ticks preserved in formalin, and engage in interactive games, like identifying animals from jawbone fragments. These activities aim to raise awareness about local biodiversity and potential health risks, such as Lyme disease, which is transmitted by ticks. According to recent data from the Public health Agency of Canada, Lyme disease cases have been steadily increasing, highlighting the importance of public education and preventative measures.

The Broader Context: Urban Parks as Vital Ecosystems

Michel-Chartrand Park serves as a microcosm of the larger ecological challenges and opportunities facing urban environments. Parks like this are not merely recreational spaces; they are vital ecosystems that support biodiversity, regulate air and water quality, and provide essential habitats for various species. Research initiatives like the one in Longueuil are crucial for understanding how to manage these spaces effectively to maximize their benefits for both human and ecological health.

Looking Ahead: Implications for Urban Planning and Public Health

The findings from this research project could have notable implications for urban planning and public health policies. By understanding the complex interactions between humans, animals, and the environment within urban parks, policymakers can make informed decisions about park management, conservation efforts, and public health interventions. This holistic approach is essential for creating lasting and healthy urban environments for future generations.

The expanding Reach of Ticks: A Growing Public Health Concern

Across North America, tick populations are not only surviving but thriving, leading to an increased risk of tick-borne illnesses for outdoor enthusiasts. This isn’t just a rural issue anymore; ticks are increasingly found in suburban and even urban environments, making awareness and prevention crucial for everyone.

The Centers for disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that cases of Lyme disease, the most common tick-borne illness, have been steadily increasing.In fact, recent data suggests that the actual number of Lyme disease cases could be substantially higher than reported, perhaps exceeding 476,000 cases per year in the united States alone. This underscores the urgency of understanding tick habitats,behaviors,and effective prevention strategies.

Prime Tick habitats: Where They Lurk

Ticks thrive in specific environments, and knowing these locations can help you minimize your exposure. they are commonly found in:

• Wooded areas: Forests and heavily wooded areas provide ideal habitats for ticks.
• Grassy fields: Tall grasses and meadows offer ticks ample opportunities to latch onto passing hosts.
• Brushy areas: Areas with dense shrubs and undergrowth are also prime tick habitats.
• Leaf litter: Ticks often hide in piles of leaves, waiting for a host to pass by.

Even your own backyard can be a tick haven, especially if you have wooded areas or tall grass. Regular lawn maintenance and clearing away leaf litter can help reduce the tick population around your home.

Effective Strategies for Tick prevention

Protecting yourself from ticks requires a multi-pronged approach. Here are some essential strategies:

• Wear protective clothing: When venturing into tick-prone areas, wear long sleeves, long pants tucked into socks or boots, and a hat. Light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks.
• Use insect repellent: Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or permethrin to your skin and clothing. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Perform tick checks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check your body for ticks, paying close attention to areas such as the groin, armpits, and scalp.
• Shower soon after being outdoors: Showering within two hours of coming indoors has been shown to reduce your risk of getting Lyme disease and may be effective in reducing the risk of other tickborne diseases.
• Maintain your yard: Keep your lawn mowed, clear away brush and leaf litter, and create a barrier of wood chips or gravel between your lawn and wooded areas.

What to Do If You Find a Tick

If you find a tick attached to your skin, it’s importent to remove it promptly and correctly. The CDC recommends the following steps:

1. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
2. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin.
3. After removing the tick, clean the area with soap and water, rubbing alcohol, or iodine.
4. Monitor the bite site for any signs of infection,such as redness,swelling,or a rash. If you develop any symptoms, consult a doctor.

Tick-Borne Illnesses: Know the Risks

Ticks can transmit a variety of diseases, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis. Symptoms of tick-borne illnesses can vary, but common signs include fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. If you experience any of these symptoms after being bitten by a tick, seek medical attention promptly.

the Growing Threat of Babesiosis

Once known as Nantucket fever, babesiosis, a tick-borne illness with malaria-like symptoms, is increasingly prevalent across the United States, extending its reach from the Northeast into the Midwest [[3]]. This parasitic infection, transmitted by ticks, poses a significant public health concern, prompting research into effective treatments and preventative measures.

Babesiosis: A Closer Look

Babesiosis is caused by microscopic parasites that infect red blood cells. The symptoms often mimic malaria, including fever, chills, fatigue, and anemia. While some individuals may experience mild or no symptoms, others, particularly those with weakened immune systems, can develop severe and life-threatening complications.

Geographic Expansion and the Lyme Disease Connection

The geographic distribution of babesiosis is expanding, raising concerns among public health officials. Research indicates a correlation between the rise of Lyme disease and the subsequent increase in babesiosis cases. Studies have shown that regions experiencing a surge in Lyme disease cases in the late 20th and early 21st centuries later reported a rise in babesiosis cases, typically one to two decades afterward [[1]]. This suggests a shared ecological niche and transmission vector, primarily the deer tick, also known as the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis) [[2]].

Combating Babesiosis: Research and Treatment

The medical community is actively pursuing improved diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for babesiosis. Currently, a clinical trial is underway to evaluate the efficacy of an anti-malarial drug in treating the disease [[3]]. Furthermore, researchers at Yale School of Medicine are making strides in developing diagnostic tests and vaccines for various tick-borne illnesses, including babesiosis, Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and Powassan virus [[2]].

Preventative Measures: protecting Yourself from Tick-Borne Diseases

Given the increasing prevalence of tick-borne illnesses, preventative measures are crucial. These include:

• Wearing protective clothing,such as long sleeves and pants,when venturing into wooded or grassy areas.
• Using insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
• Performing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors.
• Removing ticks promptly and properly.
• Maintaining a tick-free environment around your home by mowing lawns and clearing brush.

The future of tick-Borne disease Management

As tick-borne diseases continue to spread, ongoing research and public health initiatives are essential to mitigate their impact. Early diagnosis, effective treatment, and proactive prevention strategies are key to protecting individuals and communities from the growing threat of babesiosis and other tick-related illnesses.

Engaging the Public in Tick Research

in an innovative approach to scientific research, a new initiative is calling upon everyday citizens to contribute to the understanding of ticks and their impact on public health. Researcher Manon Boiteux is spearheading a series of workshops designed to educate and involve the community in identifying and studying these often misunderstood creatures.

Decoding Tick behavior: Sting or Bite?

The workshops aim to dispel common misconceptions about ticks,addressing questions such as Dose it sting or bite? As one park regular inquired,highlighting the public’s curiosity.Boiteux playfully notes the shift in approach: It has a rostrum, so it stings. But we no longer have the right to answer questions: if you want answers on ticks, you must come to our workshops. this underscores the initiative’s focus on empowering individuals with knowledge.

Workshop Details and Participation

The initiative seeks to recruit 360 adult participants for these interactive workshops. these sessions will provide hands-on experience in tick identification, behavior analysis, and understanding the risks associated with tick bites. Participants will learn about preventative measures and how to properly remove a tick, contributing to both personal safety and valuable data collection.

The growing Importance of Tick Research

Tick-borne diseases are on the rise globally,making research into tick behavior and distribution increasingly crucial. according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of Lyme disease, a common tick-borne illness, have steadily increased over the past decade. Citizen science initiatives like this one play a vital role in supplementing conventional research methods by expanding data collection and raising public awareness.

Citizen science projects can significantly enhance our understanding of complex ecological phenomena by leveraging the collective intelligence and observational power of the public.

Source: National Geographic

Keywords: Ticks, Citizen Science, Workshops, Tick-borne Diseases, Public health, Research

This initiative highlights the power of community involvement in scientific discovery, offering a unique prospect for individuals to contribute to a better understanding of ticks and their impact on our lives.

Reimagining Urban Parks as Centers for Health and Research

A groundbreaking initiative is transforming montreal’s urban and suburban parks into living laboratories, merging citizen science with public health initiatives. The “Health Parks” project, encompassing six key locations, aims to foster a deeper connection between residents and their natural environment while together gathering valuable data on the health benefits of green spaces.

The Six Pillars of the “Health Parks” Project

The project strategically utilizes a combination of municipal and national parks to reach a diverse population. The participating parks include:

• Michel-Chartrand Park (Longueuil)
• Pointe-aux-Prairies Nature Park (Montreal)
• Bois-de-l’île-Bizard Nature Park (Montreal)
• Îles-de-Boucherville National Park (SEPAQ)
• Mont-Saint-Bruno National Park (SEPAQ)
• Yamaska National Park (SEPAQ)

Experiential Learning: Engaging the Senses in Nature

A core component of the “Health Parks” project is its emphasis on experiential learning. Workshops encourage participants to actively engage with the park environment through guided strolls and sensory experiences. This approach aims to create a more profound and memorable connection with nature, enhancing the perceived benefits of spending time outdoors.

At each workshop, we’re going to take people to stroll through the park for at least 30 minutes. It’s super important to have experiential learning, we want people to feel things.

The Growing Importance of Urban Green Spaces

as urban populations continue to grow, the importance of accessible green spaces for public health cannot be overstated. Studies have consistently shown that access to parks and natural environments can reduce stress, improve mental well-being, and encourage physical activity. According to a recent report by the World Health Organization, access to green spaces is a crucial factor in promoting healthy urban living. the “Health Parks” project represents a proactive step towards maximizing the benefits of these vital resources.

Citizen Science: Empowering Communities Through Research

By involving citizens in data collection and analysis, the “Health parks” project not only gathers valuable scientific information but also empowers communities to become active participants in research. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and encourages residents to advocate for the preservation and enhancement of their local green spaces.The data collected will contribute to a better understanding of the specific health benefits associated with different types of park environments, informing future urban planning and public health initiatives.

Unveiling the “One Health” Concept in Michel-Chartrand Park

A pioneering study is underway in Montreal’s Michel-Chartrand Park, aiming to deepen our understanding of the “One Health” concept. This approach recognizes that the well-being of humans is inextricably linked to the health of animals and the environment they share.The research initiative seeks to actively involve park visitors in exploring these connections.

Manon Boiteux, a doctoral student at the University of Montreal, is leading the charge, emphasizing the importance of understanding these interdependencies within urban ecosystems.

Interactive Workshops Engage Park Visitors

The study incorporates a series of interactive workshops designed to gather insights and raise awareness among park users. These workshops provide a platform for visitors to share their perspectives and learn about the complex relationships at play.

Capturing Perspectives Through Photography

The first workshop invites participants to express their connection with the park through photography. Each person will capture two images: one representing a cherished element of the park and another highlighting a concern they have about the environment. These photos then serve as a starting point for discussions with the researchers.

Tick Awareness and Prevention

The second workshop addresses a pressing public health concern: ticks and the diseases they transmit. Participants will learn about effective strategies for protecting themselves from tick bites, a crucial aspect of maintaining both human and animal health in the park environment. According to the CDC, reported cases of diseases from mosquito, tick, and flea bites have tripled in the U.S.between 2004 and 2016. education and prevention are key to mitigating this risk.

Exploring the Interconnected Web of Life

The third workshop delves deeper into the “One Health” concept, examining the specific links between human health and the health of animals and the broader ecosystem. This holistic approach encourages participants to consider the far-reaching consequences of their actions within the park.

A park User’s Outlook

Renée Clément, a regular visitor to Michel-Chartrand Park and a SEPAQ cardholder, expressed enthusiasm for the research. She values the park as a natural oasis within the city, a place to find tranquility amidst the urban hustle.

We are lucky to have a nature like that in town,we are isolated in the middle of the forest,there are all kinds of birds. I find that it is relaxing in this world where we hear so many follies.

Understanding Human Impact on the Ecosystem

The research also aims to address negative human impacts on the park’s ecosystem.Boiteux highlights the example of visitors feeding Virginia deer, a practice that is prohibited in the park. Such actions can disrupt the natural food chain, increase the risk of disease transmission, and ultimately harm both the animals and the environment.

The Healthy Parks Initiative: A Comprehensive Overview

A significant five-year project, backed by $2.1 million in funding, is currently underway to promote the health of parks and their surrounding ecosystems. This initiative, now in its second year, unites fifteen researchers and numerous partners from diverse fields, including public health, environmental science, and veterinary medicine.The project aims to address the interconnected health concerns of both humans and the environment within park settings.

Human Health Risks: Staying on the Path

Venturing off designated trails in parks can pose risks to human health. Contact with high grasses increases the likelihood of encountering ticks, which can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease.According to the CDC,Lyme disease cases have been steadily increasing,with an estimated 476,000 Americans diagnosed each year. staying on marked paths is a simple yet effective way to minimize this risk.

For human health, when you go off the trails, you risk being in high herbs and being in contact with ticks.

Manon Boiteux, doctoral student at the University of Montreal

Ecological Impact: Protecting Regeneration

Beyond human health, straying from established trails can also harm the delicate ecosystems within parks. Trampling can damage or destroy young plant shoots and disrupt natural regeneration processes. This disturbance can have long-term consequences for the biodiversity and overall health of the park environment. Furthermore, off-trail activity can alter animal behavior and negatively impact their nutritional health.

For the health of ecosystems, we trample a space where there is perhaps regeneration, we destroy the young shoots.There are also many issues related to the health of the animals themselves, it changes their behavior and their nutritional health.

Manon boiteux, doctoral student at the University of Montreal

Knowledge Transfer and Education

A key component of the Healthy Parks initiative involves knowledge transfer to reach a broader audience. This includes developing workshops for organizations, creating resources for day camps, and producing informative podcasts.the effectiveness of these educational efforts will be measured through pre- and post-workshop assessments, gauging the impact on participants’ understanding and behavior.

The Search for Solutions: An Example

The initiative includes diverse research areas, one of which is the search for solutions to specific ecological challenges within the parks. This targeted approach allows researchers to address pressing issues and develop practical strategies for park management and conservation.

Engaging the Public in Tick Density Studies

Researchers in Montreal are extending an invitation to local residents to actively participate in an ongoing research project focused on tick populations within the city’s parks. This initiative aims to not only gather crucial data but also to educate the public about scientific methodologies and the importance of understanding local ecosystems.

The project, spearheaded by D^re Cécile Aenishaenslin, an associate professor at the Faculty of veterinary Medicine at the University of Montreal, emphasizes a collaborative approach. The goal is to foster a deeper understanding of the research process among citizens. Participants will have the opportunity to work alongside scientists, gaining firsthand experience in data collection and analysis.

Hands-On Experience: Measuring Tick Populations

One of the key activities available to citizen scientists involves assisting researchers in measuring tick density within park environments. This process utilizes a simple yet effective method: dragging pieces of flannel fabric across vegetation. Ticks, naturally drawn to the fabric, cling to it, allowing researchers to collect and count them. This hands-on experience provides valuable insights into the distribution and abundance of ticks in urban green spaces.

This type of citizen science initiative is becoming increasingly important. According to recent data from the Public Health Agency of canada, tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, are on the rise. Understanding tick populations and their habitats is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies. similar projects have been successfully implemented in other regions, such as the “Tick Encounter” project at the University of Rhode Island, which allows citizens to submit tick samples for identification and analysis.

The “One Health” Approach

The research project is rooted in the “One Health” approach,which recognizes the interconnectedness of human,animal,and environmental health. By involving citizens in the research process, the project aims to promote a greater awareness of this interconnectedness and the importance of protecting both human and environmental well-being.

To further illustrate this concept,the project offers resources such as a comic strip explaining the “One health” approach. This accessible format helps to convey complex scientific ideas to a broader audience, encouraging greater participation and understanding.

Call to Action: Get involved

Residents of Montreal are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity to contribute to scientific research and learn more about the local environment. By participating in the health parks project, citizens can play an active role in protecting public health and promoting a deeper understanding of the complex relationships between humans, animals, and the environment.

For more information on how to get involved, visit the project website or contact the research team at the University of Montreal.