Surveillance data show that there are established populations of ticks in the Outaouais, particularly in the southern part of the region. Since this summer, the Pontiac and the municipality of Chelsea are considered endemic areas for ticks. Hence, there is a significant risk of contracting the disease. The risk is also present in several other municipalities, including Gatineau, La Pêche, Val-des-Monts and Plaisance, even if they are not considered endemic.
Lyme disease can impact some people’s health and quality of life. It is also important to adopt simple and effective preventive measures.
Quick facts
- Lyme disease is an infection caused by bacteria transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick.
- The tick lives in vegetation, mainly in woodlands and tall grasses.
- Between May and November, during outdoor activities:
- Wear a hat, closed shoes and long cloths.
- uck your sweater into your pants and the bottom of your pants into your socks or boots.
- Use a DEET or icaridin based mosquito repellent as per the instructions.
- When hiking, walk preferably on trails and avoid tall grass.
- To reduce ticks in your surroundings:
- Cut tall grass and undergrowth around your house, and mow your lawn, especially near children's playgrounds.
- Remove dead leaves, undergrowth and weeds from your lawn and around wood supplies and the shed.
- Create paths (at least 3 metres wide) of wood chips or gravel between wooded areas and lawns, patios and playgrounds.
- After outdoor activities, inspect your equipment and whole body. Take advantage of bath time to inspect your children. If you spot a tick, remove it with tweezers and store it in a tightly closed container.
- If symptoms are observed in the months following a bite, such as redness at the site of the bite, fever, headache, fatigue and stiffness in the neck, consult a doctor and bring the tick with you.
When you get bitten by a tick in a municipality in the Pontiac regions or in the Municipality of Chelsea, call Info-Santé 811: preventive treatment may be recommended. Since July 10, you may also consult a pharmacist who will assess your need for prescribed preventive treatment, if stung in these regions. Remember to bring the tick along.
Enjoy the summer months to the fullest and remember to protect yourself!
