What should be done if a child develops a fever after a tick bite? - briefly
Seek immediate medical evaluation so a clinician can assess for tick‑borne infections and initiate appropriate treatment. Keep the child hydrated, monitor the fever, and avoid aspirin or NSAIDs until a professional advises otherwise.
What should be done if a child develops a fever after a tick bite? - in detail
When a child presents with an elevated temperature after a recent tick attachment, the first priority is to assess the bite site and overall condition. Examine the skin for a partially embedded tick; if the organism is still attached, grasp it with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure. Do not twist or crush the body, and avoid using chemicals or heat. After removal, clean the area with antiseptic.
Measure the child’s temperature accurately and record the duration of the fever. If the temperature exceeds 38 °C (100.4 °F) and persists for more than 24 hours, arrange a medical evaluation promptly. Contact a pediatrician or visit an urgent‑care clinic; advise that the child’s recent exposure to a tick be mentioned, as it guides diagnostic testing.
During the clinical visit, the provider will likely:
- Perform a thorough physical examination, focusing on the bite location, rash development, lymphadenopathy, and neurologic signs.
- Order laboratory tests if indicated, such as a complete blood count, liver function panel, and serologic assays for Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, or anaplasmosis.
- Initiate empiric antibiotic therapy when the risk of Lyme disease or other tick‑borne infections is high. Doxycycline is the first‑line agent for children over eight years; for younger patients, amoxicillin is commonly prescribed for early Lyme disease.
- Provide guidance on antipyretic use (e.g., acetaminophen or ibuprofen) to control fever and ensure adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
If the child exhibits any of the following, seek emergency care without delay:
- Fever above 40 °C (104 °F) or rapid escalation.
- Severe headache, neck stiffness, or photophobia.
- Confusion, lethargy, or seizures.
- Facial palsy, weakness, or joint swelling.
- A spreading rash resembling a target (erythema migrans) or other unusual skin lesions.
After treatment begins, monitor the child twice daily for changes in temperature, rash evolution, and new symptoms. Complete the full course of antibiotics even if fever resolves early, to prevent relapse or chronic infection. Document the bite date, removal method, and any medications administered for future reference.
Preventive measures for future exposures include using EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET or picaridin, dressing children in long sleeves and pants, performing daily tick checks after outdoor activities, and promptly removing any attached ticks using the described technique.