Ticks

As we enjoy the outdoors this summer—walking through local parks, exploring wooded trails, or simply relaxing in our backyards—it’s important to stay informed about two health risks that are present in our region: Lyme disease and West Nile virus. Both are spread by insects commonly found in Ottawa—ticks and mosquitoes—and Ottawa Public Health (OPH) is working actively to help keep our community safe.

Lyme Disease in Ottawa

Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi, which is spread through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick. These ticks are found in grassy and wooded areas, and they’re most active from spring through fall.

If you’re out for a hike or spending time in tall grass or leaf-covered areas, it’s a good idea to do a full-body check afterward—for yourself, your children, and even your pets. Ticks like to hide in warm, moist areas such as behind the knees, around the groin, under the arms, and along the scalp.

If you do find a tick attached to your skin, remove it as soon as possible using clean tweezers. The longer a tick is attached, the greater the chance of infection. If the tick may have been attached for more than 24 hours, Ottawa Public Health recommends speaking with a pharmacist or healthcare provider. In some cases, a short course of antibiotics can prevent Lyme disease from developing.

Early signs of Lyme disease typically appear within 3 to 32 days and may include fatigue, fever, muscle and joint pain, headaches, swollen lymph nodes, or a circular expanding rash that may resemble a bull’s-eye. The earlier it’s detected, the easier it is to treat—so don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you’re concerned.

West Nile Virus in Ottawa

West Nile virus is another infection to be aware of during the summer months. It’s carried by certain types of mosquitoes, especially those that feed on infected birds. Once infected, a mosquito can pass the virus to humans through a bite.

For most people, infection won’t cause symptoms. But about one in five may develop a mild illness that includes fever, headache, body aches, or fatigue. In rare cases—fewer than one percent—West Nile virus can lead to more serious neurological illness.

Locally acquired cases in Ottawa tend to peak in August and September, which is why mosquito prevention and awareness is especially important throughout the summer.

What the City and OPH Are Doing

Ottawa Public Health is taking several proactive steps to monitor and reduce the spread of these infections in our community. This includes surveillance of both tick and mosquito populations, working closely with researchers from the University of Ottawa to better understand how these insects are spreading across the city.

OPH also runs a West Nile Virus Prevention Program that includes placing mosquito traps around the city and testing them regularly. In areas where mosquito larvae are found, they may apply biological or chemical larvicides approved by Ontario’s Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks to help keep populations in check. If you have a backyard catch basin and would like it treated, you can email healthsante@ottawa.ca to make a request.

No adult mosquito spraying (adulticide) has been required to date, but it remains an option if risk levels rise significantly.

How You Can Help Protect Yourself and Others

• While OPH is working hard behind the scenes, there are also a few simple ways you can protect yourself and your family:
• Use an insect repellent approved by Health Canada that contains DEET or icaridin.
• Wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks when spending time outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas.
• Tuck your pants into your socks to prevent ticks from crawling up.
• Try to avoid being outdoors during dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are most active.
• Make sure your home has well-fitting screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes outside.
• Reduce standing water around your home—mosquitoes need water to breed. Regularly empty or remove items like old tires, flower pots, bird baths, toys, and pool covers where water might collect.

Staying Informed

Ottawa Public Health regularly shares updates and prevention tips on social media, including Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky. I encourage you to follow them and stay connected.

If you’re ever unsure about a tick bite, symptoms, or local activity related to these infections, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider—or visit Ottawa Public Health’s website for more information.

Let’s enjoy a safe and healthy summer together.