What should be applied to a tick bite on a human? - briefly
Clean the bite site with soap and water, then cover it with an antiseptic (e.g., povidone‑iodine) and, if desired, a thin layer of topical antibiotic ointment. Monitor for signs of infection and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.
What should be applied to a tick bite on a human? - in detail
When a tick attaches to the skin, the first priority is safe removal. Grasp the tick with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure, and avoid squeezing the body. After extraction, cleanse the site with an antiseptic such as 70 % isopropyl alcohol, povidone‑iodine, or chlorhexidine.
Topical care follows the cleaning step. Apply a thin layer of an over‑the‑counter antibiotic ointment (e.g., bacitracin or mupirocin) to reduce bacterial colonisation. If irritation or mild inflammation is present, a low‑potency corticosteroid cream (hydrocortisone 1 %) can be used to alleviate itching and erythema. For patients with known allergy to tick‑borne pathogens, a single dose of oral doxycycline (200 mg) within 72 hours of the bite is recommended as prophylaxis against Lyme disease, provided no contraindications exist.
Systemic monitoring is essential. Observe the wound for signs of infection—redness expanding beyond the margin, increasing pain, purulent discharge, or fever. If any of these develop, seek medical evaluation promptly. Document the date of the bite, the tick’s estimated attachment duration, and any subsequent symptoms such as rash, joint pain, or neurological changes, as these details guide further treatment decisions.