Where to submit a tick after a bite? - briefly
Submit the tick to the local public‑health agency or an accredited clinical laboratory for species identification and pathogen testing. Many jurisdictions also provide online reporting portals for rapid submission.
Where to submit a tick after a bite? - in detail
After a tick has been detached, preserve the specimen in a sealed container with a damp cotton ball to maintain humidity. Label the container with the date of removal, the geographic location of the bite, and any observed symptoms.
Suitable destinations for analysis include:
- Regional public‑health laboratory: most counties operate a vector‑borne disease unit that accepts ticks for species identification and pathogen testing. Submit the sealed container with a brief form indicating exposure details.
- University or research institute with an entomology department: many academic labs run tick‑testing programs for clinicians and the public. Contact the department’s outreach coordinator to arrange drop‑off or courier shipment.
- Commercial tick‑testing service: companies specializing in arthropod analysis provide online ordering, prepaid packaging, and results within a few weeks. Register on the provider’s website, follow the supplied packaging instructions, and include the required metadata.
- Veterinary diagnostic laboratory: animal‑health labs frequently process ticks collected from humans and pets. Call the laboratory to confirm acceptance and obtain a submission kit.
When sending the specimen, adhere to the following protocol:
- Place the tick in a breathable container (e.g., a small vial or zip‑lock bag) with a moist substrate to prevent desiccation.
- Seal the container and attach a label containing:
- Include a completed submission form or a printed copy of the required data fields.
- Ship the package via a non‑express service that does not require temperature control; avoid freezing or extreme heat.
- Retain a copy of the tracking number for follow‑up.
In parallel, schedule an appointment with a medical professional. Provide the tick specimen, if possible, and the documentation of exposure. The clinician can order confirmatory laboratory tests based on the submitted tick’s identification and the patient’s clinical presentation.