TICK REMOVAL

Ticks are brown or black insects that range in size from 1/16” to 1 /2”.  There are several varieties (species).  They attach to the skin and look like brown or black bumps.

Inspect your child’s skin and scalp for ticks after play or hiking, so that they can be removed promptly.  The best way is to pull the tick off with a tweezers.  Grasp the tick firmly, as close as possible to the skin, and pull with steady traction.  If you are not able to remove the tick or if parts of the tick are left embedded in the skin, call our office so that we can give you further advice.  After removal, clean the area with soap and water or an antiseptic.

Record the date of the tick bite.  Then, if your child develops a rash, fever or flu-like symptoms, we will know when the bite occurred.  Not all ticks transmit Lyme disease.  It is the smaller deer tick which can.  Even all deer ticks do not transmit the bacteria causing Lyme disease.  The tick needs to be attached for more than 24-48 hours and even then may not cause disease.

To prevent tick bites, have your child wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts when hiking or playing in tick-infested areas. You may also use insect repellent containing DEET; spray it over your child’s clothing, not on the skin.



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