Ticks are small, but they bring big problems. Over the last several years, cases of tick-borne diseases have gone up all across Canada. These illnesses can make you very sick if you’re not careful. So it’s important to learn how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Why Are Ticks a Bigger Problem Now?
In the past, ticks were mostly found in warmer parts of Canada. But now, they’re spreading to more areas, even places that used to be too cold. Warmer winters and longer summers give ticks more time to live and grow. That means more chances for them to bite people and spread diseases.
Ticks move by attaching themselves to animals like deer, mice, and birds. These animals carry ticks into new neighborhoods, parks, and even backyards. If you spend time outdoors, you’re more likely to run into them.
Most Common Tick-Borne Diseases in Canada
1. Lyme Disease This is the most common tick-related illness in Canada. It’s caused by a bacteria passed from blacklegged ticks (also known as deer ticks). Early signs include a round, red rash that looks like a bullseye. You might also feel tired, have headaches, or get a fever.
If Lyme disease isn’t treated quickly, it can cause joint pain, nerve problems, or even heart trouble.
2. Anaplasmosis This disease affects your white blood cells. It can cause fever, chills, and muscle pain. It spreads through blacklegged ticks as well.
3. Babesiosis Babesiosis is like malaria. It attacks red blood cells and can lead to weakness and anemia. This disease is rarer but still dangerous.
4. Powassan Virus Powassan is a serious virus. It can cause swelling in your brain and doesn’t have a known cure. Though it’s rare, cases are rising.
Where Ticks Are Found in Canada
Ticks like grassy, bushy, or wooded areas. They also like leaf piles and tall grass. You might find them in:
- Forests
- Parks
- Hiking trails
- Backyards with tall grass or woodpiles
In recent years, blacklegged ticks have spread across Ontario, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Manitoba. If you live in or travel to these places, take extra care.
When Are Ticks Most Active?
Ticks are most active from spring to fall, especially during the warm and humid summer months. But in some warmer parts of Canada, they can be active even in winter.
How to Protect Yourself from Ticks
Here are some easy ways to stay safe:
1. Dress Smart Wear long sleeves and long pants. Tuck your pants into your socks to keep ticks from crawling inside.
2. Use Bug Spray Use repellents that have DEET or icaridin. Spray it on your skin and clothes.
3. Stick to Trails When hiking or walking in nature, stay on clear paths. Avoid brushing against tall grass or shrubs.
4. Check Yourself and Your Pets After being outdoors, check your skin for ticks. Look behind your ears, around your waist, under your arms, and on your legs. Ticks like warm, hidden spots. Don’t forget to check your pets too.
5. Shower After Being Outdoors Showering within two hours of coming inside can help wash away ticks that haven’t latched on yet.
6. Keep Your Yard Clean Cut the grass short. Remove leaf piles and woodpiles. Create a barrier of wood chips or gravel between your lawn and wooded areas.
What If You Find a Tick on You?
Don’t panic. Follow these steps:
- Remove the tick right away using tweezers. Grab it close to your skin and pull straight out. Don’t twist or crush it.
- Clean the area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
- Watch for symptoms for the next few weeks. If you feel tired, get a fever, or see a rash, see a doctor.
- Save the tick in a sealed container or ziplock bag. Your doctor may want to identify it.
When to See a Doctor
If you think a tick bit you and you have symptoms like:
- A rash
- Fever or chills
- Headaches
- Muscle or joint pain
- Dizziness or tiredness
…visit a doctor right away. Early treatment is very important. Most tick-borne diseases can be treated with antibiotics if caught early.
How Tick Issues Are Changing in Canada
Tick-borne illnesses are rising fast. For example:
- Over 4,700 cases of Lyme disease were reported in 2023.
- More people are getting sick in places that used to be low-risk.
- Climate change is letting ticks survive longer and move farther.
Health Canada and local health units now track tick locations and cases. You can check your local health department’s website for updates.
Are Pets at Risk Too?
Yes. Dogs and cats can get ticks, and some tick-borne diseases can make them very sick. Talk to your vet about tick prevention products. Also, check your pets after walks or playtime outside.
Can You Keep Ticks Out Completely?
It’s hard to keep ticks away forever. But with the right steps, you can lower your risk. Just like locking your doors at night, checking for ticks should become a habit when you spend time outside.
Final Thoughts
Ticks are here to stay, and they’re not just a problem in remote forests. They’re in backyards, parks, and neighborhoods across Canada. But you don’t need to be afraid. With some planning and daily habits, you can stay safe and enjoy your time outdoors.
Remember:
- Cover up when you’re outside.
- Check for ticks after hikes or yard work.
- Keep your yard neat and trimmed.
- See a doctor if you feel sick after a tick bite.
Protecting yourself from ticks is about being smart, not scared. And now that you know what to do, you’re ready to stay safe and help others do the same.
