What should I know before testing a tick for Lyme disease?

Tick Identification and Removal

Identifying the tick species is crucial for understanding the potential risk of Lyme disease transmission. The American dog tick, blacklegged tick, and lone star tick can all transmit diseases, but only the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) and the western blacklegged tick (Ixodes pacificus) are primary vectors of Lyme disease in the United States. If you suspect a tick has bitten you, it’s essential to remove it promptly and correctly to minimize the risk of disease transmission.

Preparing a Tick for Testing

If you decide to test a tick for Lyme disease, follow proper handling and preservation procedures to ensure accurate results. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to your skin as possible, and pull upwards with steady, even pressure. Do not squeeze or twist the tick, as this can cause it to release bacteria into your skin. Once removed, place the tick in a sealed container or plastic bag and store it in a refrigerator or freezer until testing. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that ticks be tested within 3-14 days after removal.

Testing a Tick for Lyme Disease

Not all removed ticks need to be tested for Lyme disease, especially if the tick is not a blacklegged tick or the bite was recent. If you experience symptoms such as a rash, fever, or headache after a tick bite, consult a healthcare professional immediately. In areas where Lyme disease is common, your healthcare provider may recommend testing a tick for Lyme disease if you have a history of tick exposure and symptoms. Your healthcare provider will typically send the tick to a laboratory for testing using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or serology test.