If You Notice This Insect, Follow These Important Steps

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  1. Grasp close to the skin. Using fine-tipped tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible. Get right at the mouthparts—don't grab the body.

  2. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don't twist or jerk. This can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. Steady, gentle pressure is key.

  3. Don't squeeze or crush the tick's body. Squeezing can force infected fluids back into the bite.

  4. Clean the bite area thoroughly. Wash with soap and water, then apply rubbing alcohol or an antiseptic.

  5. Save the tick if possible. Place it in a small container or ziplock bag with a damp cotton ball. If you develop symptoms later, having the tick for identification can be valuable.

What NOT to do:

    • ❌ Don't use petroleum jelly, nail polish, or gasoline to "smother" the tick

    • ❌ Don't use heat (matches, lighters) to try to make it detach

    • ❌ Don't twist or yank

  • ❌ Don't squeeze the body

These folk methods actually increase risk by causing the tick to regurgitate into the bite.

Step 2: Clean and Monitor the Bite Site

After removal:

  • Clean with soap and water again

  • Apply an antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin)

  • Mark the date on your calendar

  • Take a photo of the bite site (for reference)

Watch for these signs in the coming days and weeks:

Symptom When to Worry
Redness or irritation Normal for first 24-48 hours
Expanding red rash (bull's-eye or solid) Seek medical attention
Fever, chills, muscle aches Seek medical attention
Fatigue, headache, joint pain Seek medical attention
Rash anywhere on body Seek medical attention

The classic bull's-eye rash (erythema migrans) is associated with Lyme disease, but not everyone gets it—and other tick-borne illnesses present differently.

Step 3: Know When to See a Doctor

 

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