How to Remove

Proper tick removal is key in reducing disease transmission. Unlike mosquitoes and biting flies, which bite almost immediately, ticks require a relatively long time to insert their mouthparts and begin feeding. The hypostome is gradually inserted into the skin and the recurved teeth located on the hypostome help anchor the tick to the host during feeding. In some species, the tick secretes a cement-like material around the mouthparts, attaching it more securely to the host.

Therefore, popular tick removal methods, such as smothering the tick in petroleum jelly or applying noxious chemicals or a heat source to the tick, simply do not work. Proper removal involves grasping the mouthparts with a fine-pointed forceps or tweezers as close to the skin as possible and slowly applying backward pressure until the tick becomes dislodged. If deeply imbedded, the mouthparts may break off and may have to be teased out.

After removal, the site of the bite should be treated with a local antiseptic. Localized reactions to the tick bite are common.