Tick bites & Lyme disease in the Kawarthas.
Lakes, trails — and ticks. Know what to do, and when to see a doctor.
Found a tick? Remove it safely
- Use fine-tipped tweezers and grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible
- Pull straight up with steady, even pressure — don't twist or crush it
- Clean the area and your hands with soap and water
- Don't use matches, nail polish, or petroleum jelly — they don't help
- Save the tick in a sealed bag if you can — it helps with identification
The risk of Lyme increases the longer a tick stays attached, so removing it promptly matters.
Symptoms to watch for
Lyme symptoms can appear days to weeks after a bite. See a doctor if you notice:
- An expanding or “bull's-eye” rash around the bite
- Fever, chills, fatigue, headache, or muscle and joint aches
- Swollen glands
When to visit our walk-in clinic
You don’t need a family doctor or an appointment. Walk in if the tick was attached for a while (or you’re unsure how long), if you develop a rash or any symptoms above, or if you simply want it checked. After a high-risk bite a doctor may recommend preventive treatment — and the earlier Lyme is caught, the easier it is to treat. If medication is needed, fill it at our on-site pharmacy before you leave.
A little prevention goes a long way
Wear long sleeves and closed shoes on trails, use insect repellent, and do a tick check after being outdoors — especially behind the knees, along the hairline, and around the waist.
Bitten by a tick or noticing symptoms?
4-880 Armour Road, Peterborough, ON K9H 2A6 · Free on-site parking