What can you do to reduce your risk of tick-borne diseases?

Ticks are becoming increasingly common in Canada, representing a growing public health concern.

There are several types of ticks which can transmit bacteria, viruses and parasites that can cause:

• Babesiosis
• Anaplasmosis
• Lyme disease
• Powassan virus disease
• Borrelia miyamotoi disease

Good news: with the right precautions, the risk of transmission remains low and manageable. 

What is a tick?

Ticks are arachnids (like spiders) that feed on blood to complete their life cycle, which includes four stages: 

• Egg
• Larva
• Nymph
• Adult

They can feed on different hosts: 

• Mammals
• Birds
• Reptiles

A tick only becomes infected after feeding on an infected animal.

Where are ticks found in Canada?

Ticks mainly live in humid, vegetated environments:

• Forests and wooded areas
• Tall grass and shrubs
• Leaf litter and wood piles

However, they can also be found in:

• Gardens
• Parks
• Residential yards

This means the risk exists both while hiking and at home.

What is the real risk of contracting disease?

The risk of infection depends on several factors:

• Geographic location (some areas are higher risk)
• Tick species
• Length of attachment

As an example, for Lyme disease, transmission usually occurs after the tick has been attached for more than 24 hours.

Key takeaways

• Most tick bites do not result in disease
• The risk decreases significantly if the tick is removed quickly
• Not all ticks carry infections

How can you prevent tick bites?

Prevention is the best protection.

Before and during outdoor activities

• Wear long, light-coloured clothing
• Use an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin
• Avoid tall grass
• Stay on cleared trails

After being outdoors

• Carefully inspect your body
• Check children and pets
• Shower as soon as possible
• Examine clothing and equipment

These simple actions significantly reduce the risk of exposure.

What should you do if you find a tick?

Prompt removal greatly reduces the risk of infection.

Recommended steps

1. Use fine‑tipped tweezers 
2. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible
3. Pull slowly and steadily (do not twist)
4. Clean the area with soap and water
5. Note the date and monitor for symptoms

Avoid improvised methods (oil, flame, etc.), as they may increase the risk.

Should you keep the tick?

Yes. In some cases, it may be useful to keep the tick in a sealed container to help with identification if needed.

Symptoms to watch for after a tick bite

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

• An expanding rash (often “bull’s-eye” shaped)
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Muscle or joint pain

Early treatment is highly effective when started promptly.

In summary: best practices

• Ticks are present in many regions of Canada
• Different types of ticks transmit different diseases 
• The risk is real, but generally low
• Prevention and prompt removal are essential

Warmer weather brings more time outside—and unfortunately, more tick activity. Taking steps to stay safe outdoors is essential.

It’s also a great time to review your home insurance and make sure your coverage is ready for the warmer season, especially if you recently added a new deck or pool to your yard. Get a fast home quote in just a few minutes.

Source: Government of Canada