Ticks that carry Lyme disease are trekking to new locations in the province, Manitoba Health says.

Ticks that carry the bacteria that cause Lyme disease are turning up in south-central Manitoba, the province says. (CBC)Blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks, that once were limited to the southeast corner of the province are now showing up in the Stanley Trail area of south-central Manitoba, experts say, adding the were probably brought in by migratory birds.

More than a third of the ticks tested from that area carried the bacteria that cause Lyme disease, which can lead to arthritis and neurological problems if not treated with antibiotics soon after infection, the province said..

Two cases of humans infected with the the disease have been reported there in the recent past.

Experts recommend wearing a long-sleeved shirt and pants that can be sealed around the ankles when in tall grass to prevent contact with the ticks.