When it comes to tick bites, the biggest concern is exposure and transmission of infectious disease, such as Lyme disease. So, it’s important to understand how to safely remove a tick as soon as you notice it.
To remove an attached tick:
- Grasp the tick close to the skin with fine-point tweezers or use a tick removal tool.
- Pull straight up with a steady, slow motion. Twisting or jerking can cause the mouth of the tick to break off.
- Clean the bite site with soap and water or an antiseptic wipe.
- Wash your hands thoroughly when finished removing the tick.
If parts of the tick remain in the skin or if the person develops a fever, rash or aches within a few weeks of a tick bite, see a healthcare provider.
Check out the HSI Emergency Care blog for more information about safe tick removal and disposal.
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