What should I do if I find a tick on my child?

Removing the Tick Safely and Effectively

When removing a tick from your child, it’s essential to use the right technique to avoid causing further irritation or increasing the risk of disease transmission. Grasp the tick using fine-tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible, ideally at the tick’s mouthparts. Avoid pinching or squeezing the tick’s body, as this can cause it to release more saliva containing pathogens.

Checking for Attached Ticks and Removing Them Properly

Inspect your child’s skin, particularly in areas where ticks are commonly found, such as the head, neck, armpits, and groin. Use a magnifying glass or a handheld magnifying mirror to thoroughly examine the skin. If you find a tick, use the tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin as possible and pull upwards with steady, even pressure. Do not use petroleum jelly, nail polish, or other home remedies to attempt to remove the tick, as these methods can cause the tick to burrow deeper into the skin.

After Removing the Tick: Monitoring for Disease Symptoms

After removing the tick, clean the bite area with soap and water and apply an antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection. Monitor your child for symptoms of tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, which can include a distinctive “bull’s-eye” rash, fever, headache, and joint pain. If you notice any of these symptoms within the next few days or weeks, seek medical attention immediately.