Climate Change Fuels Surge in Tick-Borne Diseases Across Canada

As climate change accelerates, Canada is witnessing a significant rise in tick-borne illnesses, particularly Lyme disease, according to public health specialists. The warming climate is creating ideal conditions for ticks, which thrive in heat and humidity, thus expanding their habitat beyond traditional areas. Heather Coatsworth, Chief of Field Studies at the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg, emphasizes that 'climate change in Canada is happening at a much more accelerated rate than we see in parts of the rest of the world.' This shift is allowing blacklegged ticks, known carriers of Lyme disease, to proliferate in regions such as Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia, previously considered less susceptible to such diseases.

Lyme disease has surged dramatically in Canada over recent years. The Public Health Agency of Canada reported a staggering increase from just 144 cases in 2009 to an estimated 5,239 cases in 2024. Coatsworth projects that if current trends continue, Canada could see approximately half a million cases in the next 25 years. The disease's symptoms often mimic those of other illnesses, including fever, fatigue, and joint pain, which complicates diagnosis since many infected individuals never exhibit the characteristic bull's eye rash.

In addition to Lyme disease, other tick-borne diseases, such as anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and the Powassan virus, are emerging as public health concerns. Janet Sperling, a scientist and president of the Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation, stresses the importance of increasing awareness not only among the general public but also among healthcare professionals who may still believe Lyme disease is limited to specific regions.

The Public Health Agency of Canada has noted a remarkable increase in anaplasmosis cases, which rose from around 10 to 50 annual cases in 2012 to over 700 in the last year. Symptoms of anaplasmosis can include fever, cough, and abdominal pain, further complicating the clinical landscape. Babesiosis, another tick-borne illness, can lead to anemia, while the Powassan virus poses serious neurological risks and currently lacks a specific treatment.

Preventative measures remain crucial as people seek to enjoy outdoor summer activities. Experts recommend wearing long sleeves and using insect repellents to minimize tick exposure. Dr. Mayank Singal, a public health physician with the BC Centre for Disease Control, advises people to conduct thorough tick checks after outdoor activities and to remove any attached ticks properly to reduce the risk of infection.

This surge in tick-borne diseases highlights the urgent need for public health initiatives to educate both the public and healthcare professionals about the changing landscape of these illnesses due to climate change. As Canada continues to face the impacts of global warming, the implications for public health and safety will be paramount in the years to come.