As temperatures rise across the province, the Nova Scotia government is reminding people that tick season is underway and precautions are necessary to stay safe. Ticks can be found in both urban and rural areas, particularly in tall grass, wooded spaces, gardens, and even city parks.
“Ticks are not just a nuisance, they carry serious diseases,” said Dr. Jennifer Cram, the province’s Medical Officer of Health. “That’s why it’s important to take simple precautions like using insect repellants before you spend time outdoors and checking for ticks on your body daily.”
The blacklegged tick, commonly found in Nova Scotia, is known to spread Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and Powassan virus. Public health officials say it’s critical for residents to be aware and take preventive steps anytime they’re outside, especially when temperatures rise above 4 degrees Celsius.
Recommended precautions include:
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Wearing long pants, long sleeves, and light-coloured clothing
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Tucking pants into socks and wearing enclosed shoes
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Walking on clear, well-used paths instead of through brush or tall grass
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Using insect repellent approved by Health Canada on skin and clothing
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Checking for ticks on your body, clothing, and pets after being outdoors
Anyone bitten by a tick or concerned about symptoms can call 811 for guidance or contact the Nova Scotia Tick Hotline at 902-266-7199 or toll-free at 1-866-266-7199. Local pharmacists can also assess tick bites and determine if preventive treatment is needed.
More information about tick safety, including how to identify ticks and when to seek care, is available on the Nova Scotia government’s website:
https://novascotia.ca/dhw/pharmacare/healthcare-services.asp
