06/09/2026
Ticks are found across Nova Scotia, and some can transmit serious diseases. As temperatures rise, it is important for people to protect themselves, their family members and pets.
Ticks like warm places on the body, so it is important to do a thorough tick check after spending time outside, including:
- around ears
- behind knees
- in the hair
- between the legs and in the groin area
- around the waist
People can reduce their risk by:
- wearing long pants and long sleeves in areas likely to have ticks
- wearing light-coloured clothing (light colours make it easier to see ticks)
- wearing enclosed shoes and tucking pants into socks
- walking on well-travelled paths, avoiding long grass and vegetation
- applying insect repellents approved by Health Canada to exposed skin and clothes (following directions carefully)
People with questions or concerns about tick safety or tick-borne diseases can call 811 or visit the Nova Scotia Health Tick Service at: https://www.nshealth.ca/clinics-programs-and-services/nova-scotia-health-tick-service
Local pharmacists can assess tick bites and determine if a preventative antibiotic is needed. More information is at: https://novascotia.ca/dhw/pharmacare/healthcare-services.asp
Read more: https://news.novascotia.ca/en/2026/05/28/tick-checks-should-be-part-routine