They Woke Up Already! What to Do Immediately If You Got Bitten by a Tick

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.

Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking, which can leave mouthparts embedded.

Do not use petroleum jelly, nail polish, or heat to remove the tick—these methods are ineffective and may increase infection risk.

2. Clean the Area

Wash the bite site thoroughly with soap and water.

Apply an antiseptic like iodine or alcohol to disinfect the area.

3. Save the Tick (Optional but Helpful)

Place the tick in a sealed container or plastic bag.

Label it with the date of the bite and keep it for a few weeks in case you develop symptoms—your healthcare provider may want to test it.

4. Monitor for Symptoms

Watch for redness, swelling, or a “bullseye” rash around the bite.

Be alert for fever, fatigue, joint pain, or flu-like symptoms.

Symptoms may appear days to weeks after the bite.

5. Seek Medical Advice