What should be given to a person after a tick bite? - briefly
A single dose of doxycycline (200 mg) should be given as prophylaxis against tick‑borne infections, with close observation for any emerging symptoms. If doxycycline is contraindicated, amoxicillin (500 mg) may be used as an alternative.
What should be given to a person after a tick bite? - in detail
After a tick attachment, the first step is to detach the arthropod safely. Use fine‑point tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, and pull upward with steady pressure. Avoid crushing the body to prevent pathogen release. Once removed, cleanse the bite site with antiseptic solution and cover with a sterile bandage.
The next phase involves evaluating the need for antimicrobial prophylaxis. Administer a single dose of doxycycline (200 mg for adults, 4 mg/kg for children ≥8 years) within 72 hours of removal if any of the following conditions apply:
- Tick identified as Ixodes scapularis or Ixodes ricinus.
- Attachment time estimated ≥ 36 hours.
- Local incidence of Lyme disease is high.
- Patient is immunocompromised or pregnant (use alternative agents such as amoxicillin for pregnant individuals).
If doxycycline is contraindicated, prescribe amoxicillin (500 mg three times daily for 10 days) or cefuroxime axetil (500 mg twice daily for 10 days). Document the species, attachment duration, and treatment administered.
Monitoring continues for several weeks. Instruct the individual to observe the bite area for erythema migrans, fever, headache, fatigue, or joint pain. Should any of these symptoms emerge, initiate diagnostic testing (serology, PCR) and adjust therapy according to identified pathogen (e.g., babesiosis, anaplasmosis).
Vaccination against tick‑borne encephalitis is recommended for residents of endemic regions or travelers to such areas. Ensure the vaccine series is completed before exposure season.
Finally, educate on preventive measures: wear long sleeves and trousers, apply EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and perform daily body checks after outdoor activities. These actions reduce the risk of subsequent bites and associated infections.