Summer in Ottawa means patios, trails, and plenty of time spent outdoors, but this year it also comes with a reminder to check yourself for ticks. More than 100 residents of Ottawa have already been diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2026, with Ottawa Public Health reporting the highest rates among people living in the city’s west end.
Why It’s on the Rise Lyme disease is spread through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick, and Ottawa has long been considered an at-risk area for the illness. Ticks tend to favour wooded areas and tall grasses, which makes local trails, parks, and even overgrown backyards a potential concern for anyone spending time outdoors this season. Ottawa Public Health monitors tick populations and illness trends throughout the year, and is once again reminding residents to take precautions as case numbers climb.
How to Protect Yourself The good news is that prevention is fairly straightforward. Applying an insect repellent containing DEET or icaridin before heading outdoors is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk, along with wearing long sleeves and pants in areas where ticks are likely to be present. After spending time outside, doing a full-body tick check on yourself, your kids, and your pets is key, paying close attention to spots like the scalp, behind the ears, armpits, and behind the knees. If you do find a tick attached to your skin, use fine-pointed tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin as possible and pull it out slowly and steadily. Skip the old advice about using a match, lotion, or anything else on the tick, as that can actually increase the risk of transmission rather than reduce it.
When to See a Doctor Because the length of time a tick stays attached plays a big role in whether Lyme disease is transmitted, it’s worth contacting your doctor if you find a tick that’s been attached for 24 hours or more, or if you’re simply not sure how long it’s been there. Early symptoms of Lyme disease can include fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and an expanding rash, sometimes with the classic bullseye shape, though not everyone develops a visible rash. With plenty of summer still ahead, a few extra minutes spent on prevention and tick checks can go a long way toward making sure the season stays about hiking and patios, not doctor’s visits.
This article is for general informational purposes. If you believe you may have been bitten by a tick or are experiencing symptoms of Lyme disease, contact your healthcare provider.
