Tick bite, fever, what to do? - briefly
Remove the tick promptly with fine‑point tweezers, grasping it close to the skin and pulling straight upward, then disinfect the bite site and record the date of exposure. If fever develops or persists beyond 24–48 hours, obtain medical evaluation for possible tick‑borne infection and follow professional guidance on antibiotic treatment.
Tick bite, fever, what to do? - in detail
A tick bite that is followed by an elevated temperature signals possible infection and requires prompt action.
First, remove the tick as soon as it is discovered. Use fine‑point tweezers, grasp the mouthparts close to the skin, and pull upward with steady pressure. Disinfect the bite area with an antiseptic solution.
Next, monitor symptoms closely. Record the temperature, note the onset of rash, joint pain, headache, or fatigue. These signs may indicate diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or other tick‑borne illnesses.
If fever persists for more than 24 hours, or if any of the following appear, seek medical care immediately:
- Expanding red ring or bullseye rash at the bite site.
- Severe headache or neck stiffness.
- Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
- Muscle or joint aches that worsen.
- Confusion or neurological changes.
A clinician will evaluate exposure history, conduct a physical examination, and may order laboratory tests (e.g., serology for Borrelia burgdorferi, PCR for Rickettsia). Empiric antibiotic therapy, typically doxycycline, is often initiated before definitive results when the clinical picture suggests a serious tick‑borne infection.
While awaiting professional evaluation, supportive measures include:
- Maintaining adequate hydration.
- Using acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and discomfort, unless contraindicated.
- Keeping the bite site clean and covered with a sterile dressing.
Preventive steps for future encounters involve wearing long sleeves, applying EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET or picaridin, performing thorough body checks after outdoor activities, and treating clothing with permethrin.
Prompt removal, diligent symptom tracking, and early medical intervention together reduce the risk of complications from tick‑associated fevers.