As the summer season unfolds, families in Montreal are being urged to stay vigilant regarding ticks, the notorious carriers of Lyme disease. At Camp GUEPE, a nature programme dedicated to fostering outdoor experiences for children, parents are provided with an online resource that outlines how to conduct tick checks on their campers. This initiative comes in response to an alarming increase in Lyme disease cases, with 161 reported in 2025—the highest since records began in 2003.
A Growing Concern for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Ticks thrive in warm weather, and with more children venturing outdoors, public health officials are keen to spread awareness about these bloodsucking arachnids. Anne Frédérique Préaux, a spokesperson for GUEPE and a former camp counsellor, emphasises the importance of being proactive: “We encourage families to do a tick check at the end of the day when the kids come back from camp.” The guide provided to parents highlights the common hiding spots for ticks, such as hairlines and armpits, ensuring that children are thoroughly checked after their outdoor adventures.
Data from Montreal’s public health agency indicates that while 38 per cent of reported Lyme disease cases were contracted during outdoor activities in the city, the majority of infections were acquired in other areas of Quebec. This underscores the necessity for residents to remain alert, no matter where outdoor activities take place.
Understanding the Risks Associated with Ticks
The blacklegged and western blacklegged ticks are particularly notorious for transmitting Borrelia bacteria, which are responsible for Lyme disease. Health experts advise that any ticks found attached to the skin must be removed promptly to reduce the risk of infection.
At Camp GUEPE, counsellors are trained in the proper removal techniques, using tweezers from their first-aid kits. Counsellors will also engage campers in discussions about ticks and other potential outdoor hazards, such as poison ivy, aiming to educate rather than frighten. Préaux encourages a culture of prevention, suggesting that wearing long-sleeved clothing and applying insect repellent should become second nature for children enjoying the summer sun.
Community Initiatives and Educational Efforts
The Association des camps du Québec is similarly proactive in addressing this issue, providing camp managers with resources through the Réflexe app. This platform offers vital information on tick identification, removal, and the symptoms of Lyme disease to watch for after a tick bite.
Virginie Millien, an assistant professor of biology at McGill University, stresses that while the health risks associated with ticks should not be underestimated, there is no need for panic. “Many people are unaware that ticks can be found in urban parks and even backyards,” she noted. “It’s essential for families to enjoy outdoor play, but they must also implement routine tick checks when returning home.”
Millien also highlights the role of climate change in the increasing prevalence of ticks in areas that were previously inhospitable. “Ticks are here to stay,” she remarked, reinforcing the need for communities to adapt and develop effective strategies for coexistence with these pests.
Why it Matters
As Lyme disease cases rise across Montreal and beyond, it is crucial for families to remain informed about the risks associated with ticks. Through educational initiatives and proactive measures, camps like GUEPE are leading the charge to ensure that children can enjoy the great outdoors while minimising health risks. By fostering awareness and encouraging preventive habits, communities can work together to combat the spread of Lyme disease, ensuring safe and enjoyable summer experiences for all.
