From Your IDA Pharmacist: Protecting Yourself from Bugs & Ticks This Summer
Summer brings sunshine, fresh air, and plenty of time outdoors—but it also brings out the bugs. Mosquitoes, blackflies, and ticks aren’t just annoying; they can carry diseases like West Nile Virus and Lyme disease.
Luckily, with the right precautions (and a little help from your IDA pharmacist), you can stay safe and enjoy the season worry-free.
Why Bug Protection Matters
Insect bites aren’t just itchy. Some can lead to serious health concerns:
Mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus and other viruses.
Blackflies can cause painful swelling and allergic reactions.
Ticks, especially black-legged ticks, can transmit Lyme disease—and they're becoming more common across Ontario.
How to Protect Yourself:
✅ Use an Approved Insect Repellent
Look for products containing DEET or icaridin. These ingredients are proven to be effective and safe when used as directed. Ask us for help choosing the right option for your family—including kid-friendly formulas.
✅ Cover Up When You Can
Wear long sleeves, pants, and closed shoes when walking in grassy or wooded areas. Light-coloured clothing can help you spot ticks more easily.
✅ Check for Ticks After Outdoor Activities
Ticks love warm, hidden spots like behind the knees, underarms, groin, and scalp. Showering after being outdoors can help wash away ticks before they attach.
✅ Act Quickly After a Tick Bite
If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it as soon as possible using tweezers. Clean the area and monitor for symptoms.
Bitten by a Tick? We Can Help
If you’ve been bitten by a tick, you don’t always need to visit the doctor. At IDA, our pharmacists can perform a Minor Ailment Assessment to evaluate your tick bite and determine if treatment—like a preventative antibiotic—is needed.
No appointment necessary. Just walk in and speak to your pharmacist.
Don’t Let Bugs Ruin Your Summer
Whether you need help picking the best bug spray or want advice after a bite, your local IDA pharmacist is here to support you. Let’s keep your summer fun—and bite-free!
— Your IDA Pharmacy Team