There is real energy in Orléans right now.
The trails along the Ottawa River are busy again. Petrie Island is drawing families out on weekends. Parks and pathways across the community are filling up with people who have been waiting all winter for exactly this. And the #WhyNotOrléans movement is adding something to that momentum: a growing sense of pride in this community and what it is becoming.
At Centrum Pharmacy, we are part of this community. We have been on Centrum Boulevard since 1999, and we are invested in Orléans in the same way the people walking those trails are: we believe in this place, and we want to see it thrive.
Part of what that looks like for us is making sure that getting outside comes with support close to home.
What to Watch For When You Head Out This Season
Spring and summer in Orléans greenspace is worth every minute. But a few common minor ailments tend to peak when people spend more time outdoors. Here is what to know before you go.
Tick Bites
Blacklegged ticks (also called deer ticks) are present in Ontario and active from early spring through late fall. They can transmit Lyme disease, which, if untreated, can progress to serious joint, cardiac, and neurological complications.
If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it carefully with fine-tipped tweezers as close to the skin surface as possible. Do not twist or crush it. After removal, save the tick if possible and contact us or your healthcare provider. Under Ontario’s minor ailments program, our pharmacists can assess a tick bite and, where appropriate, prescribe a preventive antibiotic dose to reduce your risk of developing Lyme disease. You do not need a doctor’s appointment for this.
Insect Bites and Stings
Mosquitoes, bees, wasps, and black flies are all part of the Orléans outdoor experience. Most bites and stings are a minor irritation, but some people develop significant local reactions or, in rare cases, allergic responses. Our pharmacists can help you choose the right topical treatment or antihistamine, or assess whether something warrants further attention.
Seasonal Allergies
Pollen counts climb sharply in May and June. If sneezing, itchy eyes, and congestion are cutting into your outdoor time, our team can walk you through the options, from over-the-counter antihistamines to prescription-strength treatments for more severe symptoms. Pharmacist prescribing for allergic rhinitis is available, and you can book a consultation through our website.
Cuts, Scrapes, and Minor Skin Irritation
Time outdoors means time on bikes, trails, and playgrounds. Minor wound care is something our team handles every day. If something does not look like it is healing properly, or if you are unsure whether a cut needs more than a bandage, come see us.
Sunburn
Sunscreen is the best prevention, but if you end up with a burn, there are effective treatments available and guidance on what to watch for in terms of severity.
We Are Also Rostering Patients
This is a good moment to mention something that matters to a lot of Orléans families: if you do not have a family doctor, we want you to know that Centrum Pharmacy is actively working to bring new physicians to our community, and Orleans Family Health Clinic, right across the hall from us, is currently accepting new patients.
Access to primary care is one of the most significant challenges for residents across Ottawa, and we are doing something about it. Our investment in physician recruitment is part of what we believe a community pharmacy should be doing, not just filling prescriptions, but helping build the healthcare infrastructure this community needs to grow.
If you are looking to get rostered with a family doctor, start here: https://centrumpharmacy.com/get-a-physician/
Or Fill out a Form Directly Here
A Community Worth Choosing
#WhyNotOrléans is a question worth sitting with. It is a movement built on the idea that Orléans is a place worth investing in, worth visiting, and worth choosing. We agree. We chose it 26 years ago and we have not looked back.
This spring, get out and enjoy what makes this community special. And when you need support close to home, whether it is a tick bite on a Tuesday or a question about your family’s medications, we are here.
Come for the Convenience, Stay for the Service. Caring for Your Family Since 1999.
centrumpharmacy.com | 210 Centrum Blvd, Suite 107, Orléans | (613) 837-4995
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Come for the Convenience, Stay for the Service.
Caring for Your Family Since 1999
Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
