Ontario sees surge in Lyme disease and anaplasmosis as tick populations expand

Public health officials in Ontario have recorded a sharp rise in tick‑borne illnesses this year. By July 12, 651 cases of Lyme disease, 89 cases of anaplasmosis, and one case of Powassan virus were reported, reflecting a growing presence of blacklegged (deer) ticks across the province. Researchers attribute the increase to milder winters and a longer tick season, which have allowed the ticks to expand their geographic range northward by up to 34 miles per year. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, an infectious‑disease specialist at Toronto General Hospital, noted that the expanding tick population is bringing both Lyme disease and the lesser‑known anaplasmosis into new areas, prompting the province to classify these illnesses as reportable infections to improve surveillance. Prevention measures, including tick checks and prompt removal, remain the primary recommendation for residents engaging in outdoor activities.