Tick Bites - What to Do First

Ticks bites can make people sick. Take these steps after a tick bite to reduce your chances of getting sick and get treatment promptly if you do get sick. 

While it is a good idea to take preventive measures against ticks year-round, be extra cautious in warmer months (April-September) when ticks are most active. Know which ticks are most common in your area.

• Avoid tick-infested areas such as overgrown grass, brush, and leaf litter. Stick to the middle of trails and stay away from trail edges.
• Use insect spray repellent containing at least 20% DEET. Treat your clothes with permethrin, especially pants, socks and shoes. Permethrin kills ticks on contact. Permethrin can also be used on tents and some other camping gear.
• Check yourself daily. Because ticks must usually be attached for at least a day before they can transmit the bacteria that causes Lyme disease, early removal can reduce the risk of infection.
• Always check for ticks after being outdoors, even in your own yard. Pay special attention under your arms, in and around the ears, inside the belly button, behind the knees, between the legs, around the waist, and on the hairline and scalp.
• Shower soon after being outdoors – within 2 hours – to more easily find ticks.

Tick Removal

1. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
2. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin.
3. If the mouthparts remain in the skin, do not be alarmed. Leave them alone and let the skin heal.
4. After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, antiseptic, or soap and water.