How to remove a tick from a human and treat the bite site? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure until it releases, then disinfect the bite site with an antiseptic and apply a mild topical antibiotic.
How to remove a tick from a human and treat the bite site? - in detail
Remove the attached arthropod with fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding compression of its abdomen. Pull upward with steady, even pressure; do not twist, jerk, or squeeze the body. If any mouthparts remain embedded, gently dig them out with a sterile needle; leave them in place only if removal risks further tissue damage.
After extraction, clean the bite area with an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine. Pat dry with a sterile gauze. Apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment and cover with a clean, non‑adhesive dressing if the site is prone to friction.
Monitor the wound for signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or escalating pain. Record the date of removal and the tick’s estimated stage (larva, nymph, adult) if identifiable. Seek medical evaluation promptly if:
- Fever or flu‑like symptoms develop within 2‑3 weeks.
- A rash appears, especially a “bull’s‑eye” pattern.
- The bite site enlarges rapidly or becomes necrotic.
- The tick was attached for more than 24 hours or was identified as a known disease carrier.
For individuals with compromised immunity, pregnant women, or children, consider prophylactic antibiotic therapy (e.g., a single dose of doxycycline) when local guidelines recommend it. Store the tick in a sealed container with damp cotton for potential laboratory identification, labeling with date and location of removal.
Maintain personal protection to prevent future encounters: wear long sleeves and trousers in tick‑infested habitats, apply EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and conduct thorough body checks after outdoor activity. Regularly treat pets and domestic animals with veterinarian‑approved acaricides to reduce environmental tick load.