What should be done if a child has a tick on their head? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the «tick» as close to the scalp as possible and pull upward with steady pressure. Clean the site with antiseptic, watch for rash or fever, and seek medical advice if any symptoms develop.
What should be done if a child has a tick on their head? - in detail
If a tick is found attached to a child’s scalp, act promptly. First, keep the child still to prevent the parasite from embedding deeper. Examine the area to confirm the tick’s position and size.
Removal procedure
- Use fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding the body.
- Apply steady, upward pressure without twisting or crushing.
- Release the tick once the mouthparts detach from the skin.
- Place the specimen in a sealed container for identification if needed.
Post‑removal care
- Disinfect the bite site with an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine or alcohol.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling the tick.
- Observe the area for redness, swelling, or a rash over the next several days.
- Seek medical attention if the tick remained attached for more than 24 hours, if the child develops fever, headache, joint pain, or a characteristic «bull’s‑eye» rash, or if the tick species is unknown.
Preventive measures
- Dress the child in long sleeves and pants when entering wooded or grassy areas.
- Apply an EPA‑approved insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 to exposed skin and hair, following product instructions.
- Perform a thorough tick check after outdoor activities, paying special attention to the scalp, hairline, and behind the ears.
- Maintain short grass and remove leaf litter around the home to reduce tick habitat.
Following these steps minimizes the risk of pathogen transmission and ensures swift management of a tick bite on a child’s head.