What to do when a tick is found? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure. Clean the bite site with antiseptic and monitor for rash or fever in the following weeks.
What to do when a tick is found? - in detail
If a tick is discovered attached to the skin, act promptly.
First, gather tools: fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick removal device, antiseptic, and a clean container with a lid.
Removal steps:
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible, holding the mouthparts, not the body.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting, jerking, or squeezing the body, which can cause mouthparts to break off or release pathogens.
- Release the tick into the container; discard it by sealing the container and placing it in household waste, or keep it for identification if illness symptoms appear later.
After extraction, cleanse the bite area and hands with antiseptic. Observe the site for several weeks; a rash, fever, or flu‑like symptoms may indicate infection and require medical evaluation.
If removal is difficult—e.g., mouthparts remain embedded—consult a healthcare professional rather than attempting further manipulation.
Document the encounter: date, location, estimated duration of attachment, and any symptoms. This information assists clinicians in diagnosing tick‑borne diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or anaplasmosis.
Preventive measures for future exposure include wearing long sleeves and pants in wooded areas, applying EPA‑registered repellents, and performing regular body checks after outdoor activities.