What to do if a tick has bitten you? - briefly
Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible with fine‑tipped tweezers and pull upward with steady, even pressure; then disinfect the bite site and wash your hands. Monitor the area for rash or flu‑like symptoms and consult a healthcare professional if any develop.
What to do if a tick has bitten you? - in detail
If a tick attaches to the skin, act promptly. First, locate the head and mouthparts; they protrude from the skin surface. Use fine‑point tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or squeezing the body, which can force infected fluid into the wound.
After removal, place the tick in a sealed container for identification if needed. Clean the bite area with soap and water, then apply an antiseptic such as iodine or alcohol. Do not use petroleum‑based products on the tick itself, as they may impede removal.
Observe the site for the next several weeks. Record any of the following within 24–48 hours:
- Redness expanding beyond the bite margin
- A rash resembling a target or bull’s‑eye
- Fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, or fatigue
If any of these symptoms appear, seek medical evaluation immediately. Inform the clinician about the tick exposure, the date of the bite, and the geographic region where it occurred, as this helps determine the risk of diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or anaplasmosis.
For individuals at higher risk—those with compromised immune systems, pregnant women, or children—consider prophylactic antibiotics after a confirmed bite by a known disease‑carrying species, following local health‑authority guidelines.
Prevent future incidents by wearing long sleeves and pants, using EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and conducting thorough body checks after outdoor activities. Treat clothing and gear with permethrin when appropriate. Regularly inspect pets for ticks and remove any found promptly.