What to do if a tick remains in the house? - briefly
Locate the tick, grasp it with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible, pull straight upward, and place it in a sealed bag for disposal or testing. Disinfect the bite site, vacuum the surrounding area, wash bedding at high temperature, and inspect the home for additional ticks.
What to do if a tick remains in the house? - in detail
If a tick is discovered inside the home, immediate action reduces the risk of bites and potential disease transmission. Follow these steps:
- Isolate the area where the tick was found. Close doors and windows to prevent it from moving to other rooms.
- Capture the tick with fine‑tipped tweezers. Grip the parasite as close to the skin as possible, avoiding crushing the body.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Do not twist or jerk, which can leave mouthparts embedded.
- Place the removed tick in a sealed container (e.g., a zip‑lock bag) with a damp cotton ball. Label the container with the date and location of discovery for possible medical consultation.
- Clean the bite site and surrounding skin with soap and water, then apply an antiseptic.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling the tick and any contaminated surfaces.
Next, conduct a thorough inspection of the dwelling:
- Remove clutter from floors, closets, and pet bedding where ticks can hide.
- Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery, emptying the canister or bag into a sealed bag outside the house.
- Launder bedding, curtains, and pet blankets in hot water (minimum 60 °C) and dry on high heat.
- Check pets for attached ticks; treat them with a veterinarian‑approved preventative product if needed.
Environmental control measures help prevent re‑infestation:
- Seal cracks in foundations, doors, and windows to limit entry points.
- Trim vegetation around the house, keeping grass and shrubs at least six inches from the foundation.
- Apply a residual acaricide to perimeter zones and interior crawl spaces, following label instructions and safety precautions.
- Consider installing tick‑specific traps in high‑risk areas, such as basements or storage rooms.
If a bite occurs, monitor the site for redness, swelling, or a rash. Seek medical advice promptly if symptoms develop, especially fever, headache, or joint pain, and provide the tick specimen for identification if possible. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics can prevent complications from tick‑borne illnesses.