What should I smear on a wound from a tick? - briefly
Apply a broad‑spectrum antiseptic—e.g., povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine—to the bite area after removal. Then obtain medical evaluation to assess risk of tick‑borne infection.
What should I smear on a wound from a tick? - in detail
After removing the tick, rinse the bite site with running water and mild soap. Pat the area dry with a clean cloth. Apply an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine; allow it to air‑dry for a few seconds. Once the antiseptic has dried, spread a thin layer of a topical antibiotic ointment—e.g., bacitracin, neomycin, or mupirocin—to reduce bacterial colonization. Cover the wound with a sterile, non‑adhesive dressing if the bite is in a location prone to friction or contamination.
Monitoring the site is essential. Check daily for increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus, which may indicate infection. If any of these signs appear, seek medical evaluation; a prescription‑strength antibiotic may be required. Additionally, be aware of early symptoms of tick‑borne illnesses—fever, headache, fatigue, or a characteristic expanding rash—within 2–30 days after the bite. Prompt medical assessment is advised if such symptoms develop.
For individuals with known allergies to iodine or specific topical antibiotics, substitute with an alcohol‑based antiseptic (70 % isopropanol) followed by a fragrance‑free, hypoallergenic ointment such as petroleum jelly to keep the area moist while avoiding irritants.
In summary, the care sequence is: clean → antiseptic → antibiotic ointment → sterile dressing → regular inspection. This protocol maximizes local wound protection and minimizes the risk of secondary infection and systemic complications.