Nova Scotia’s Acadia University lab has secured a $1.2 million grant from the provincial government for ongoing research into tick-borne illnesses prevention and management. Nicoletta Faraone, leading the Canadian Tick Research and Innovation Centre, emphasized the critical role of these funds in establishing the lab’s foundation. The grant will primarily support the lab’s surveillance program, focusing on identifying tick species, pathogens they carry, and their response to repellents or attractants.
Ticks, known for transmitting diseases like Lyme disease and anaplasmosis to humans through bites, pose a significant health risk. With cutting-edge equipment, the lab aims to expedite pathogen testing to enhance understanding and preparedness in preventing tick bites.
The funding, part of Research Nova Scotia’s Focused Research Initiative backed by the Department of Advanced Education, underscores the urgency of addressing tick-borne diseases. Stefan Leslie, CEO of Research Nova Scotia, emphasized the importance of translating research findings into practical solutions to combat these diseases.
Recent data from the Public Health Agency of Canada revealed a concerning trend, with over 5,800 reported Lyme disease cases nationwide in 2024, 2,350 of which were in Nova Scotia alone. Additionally, cases of other tick-borne illnesses like anaplasmosis are on the rise, underscoring the need for continued research and vigilance.
In a bid to bolster tick research efforts, the federal government is contributing an additional $455,000 through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. This funding will enable the lab to sustain its tick-breeding initiative, a critical aspect of studying Canadian tick genetics. Previously reliant on purchasing ticks from the sole known tick-breeding facility in North America, the Acadia lab’s independent breeding program will not only facilitate genetic studies but also serve as a revenue source by supplying specimens to researchers domestically and internationally.
Faraone highlighted the successful commencement of the tick-breeding program, with ticks collected throughout different seasons. The lab is actively monitoring optimal environmental conditions to foster tick colonies for research purposes.