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Risk of ticks is higher than normal in Ontario this year: Health unit
May 28, 2026 · 0 Comments
By Brian Lockhart
The risk of contracting ticks is higher than normal in Ontario this year, and residents are being urged to remain vigilant when venturing out into natural areas.
Reports indicate that there are 40 per cent more Lyme disease-carrying ticks in Ontario this year.
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is offering advice on how to avoid ticks this summer and reduce the risk of contracting Lyme disease.
Wooded trails and grassy areas can be home to blacklegged ticks, which may carry Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. These illnesses can be serious but are preventable.
You can reduce your risk of tick bites by taking a few precautions.
Wear light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants and closed-toe shoes.
Use an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin. Stay on marked trails when walking or biking in natural areas.
After spending time outdoors, it is important to check for ticks that may have come into contact with you.
You should conduct a full-body check on yourself, your children, and your pets as soon as possible.
Use a mirror or ask for help to check hard-to-see areas.
Shower within two hours of coming indoors to help wash away loose ticks.
Ticks must be removed within 24 hours to help prevent infection.
You can kill any ticks on clothing by putting the clothes in a dryer on high heat for at least 10 minutes before washing.
If you find a tick, remove it promptly and check for others. If a tick has been attached for 24 hours or more, speak with a health-care provider about whether preventive antibiotics are appropriate.
Early symptoms of Lyme disease can include fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint pain, and fatigue. Some people may also develop a red rash that expands within three to 30 days after a bite.
When detected early, most cases can be treated successfully.
If you experience symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
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