Why is this important?
Insect bites can cause both minor reactions and cause vector-borne diseases including Lyme disease and West Nile virus. Climate change is increasing the likelihood of the spread of vector-borne diseases in Canada. Prevention methods can be effective in reducing bite exposures.
What actions can we take?
- Follow public health advice to prevent children’s exposure to insect bites and to reduce insect habitat around the centre.
- Be aware of outdoor settings where ticks and mosquitoes may be found.
- Get rid of standing water on your property by emptying water in toys, flowerpots, birdbaths and other objects where mosquitoes can breed.
- Take actions to minimize the need for insect repellents.
- Avoid outdoor play during peak biting times (the hours between dusk and dawn).
- Encourage families to provide protective clothing (lightweight, light-coloured clothing that covers the body, long-sleeved shirt and long pants as removable top layers, as well as shoes, socks and a hat).
- When an insect repellent is used:
- Only use repellents approved for use in Canada. Approved repellants will have a Pest Control Products [PCP] Act number on the product label.
- Read and carefully follow all label instructions.
- When using sprays, never spray directly into the face. Instead, spray on hands first and then apply to face.