What should you do if you see a tick? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine‑tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure, then disinfect the bite site and wash hands; retain the specimen for identification if needed and monitor the area for rash or fever over the ensuing weeks.
What should you do if you see a tick? - in detail
If a tick is observed on the skin, act promptly.
First, locate the parasite. Part of the body where the tick attaches is often reddened or raised. Use a magnifying lens if necessary.
Second, obtain fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding compression of the body. Pull upward with steady, even pressure until the mouthparts separate completely from the skin. Do not twist or jerk, as this may leave fragments embedded.
Third, place the removed tick in a sealed container. Preserve for identification or for presentation to a healthcare professional if disease symptoms develop.
Fourth, disinfect the bite site with an antiseptic such as iodine or alcohol. Apply a clean bandage if irritation persists.
Fifth, observe the area for the next several weeks. Note any rash, fever, joint pain, or flu‑like symptoms, especially those resembling a bull’s‑eye pattern around the bite.
Sixth, consult a medical practitioner if any of the following occur:
- Persistent redness or swelling beyond a few days
- Development of a rash or lesions
- Fever, chills, headache, or muscle aches
- Joint or neurological complaints
Medical advice may include prophylactic antibiotics, particularly if the tick species is known to transmit Lyme disease and removal occurred within 72 hours.
Seventh, implement preventive measures to reduce future encounters:
- Wear long sleeves and trousers in wooded or grassy areas
- Apply EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET or picaridin to skin and clothing
- Perform thorough body checks after outdoor activities, focusing on scalp, armpits, groin, and behind knees
- Treat pets with veterinarian‑approved tick control products
Prompt removal and vigilant monitoring minimize the risk of tick‑borne illnesses.