Did you know that data gathered across Massachusetts emergency departments shows that tick exposures and tick-borne diseases have been higher than any time over the past 3 years? Read below to learn more about managing Tick Exposures and preventing disease.
What to Do After a Tick Bite
- Remove the tick as soon as possible using clean, fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp it close to the skin and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking.
- Clean the area and your hands with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
- Do not use petroleum jelly, nail polish, or heat to remove the tick.
- Save the tick, if possible, in a sealed container or taped to paper. Label it with the date and location of the bite.
When to Contact a Doctor
Reach out to a healthcare provider if:
- The tick was attached for 36 hours or longer
- The bite occurred in a Lyme-endemic area (Northeast, Upper Midwest, Northern California)
- You’re unsure how long the tick was attached or what kind it was
- You develop symptoms within 30 days, such as:
- A red, expanding rash (often bull’s-eye shaped)
- Fever, chills, fatigue, headache
- Muscle/joint aches or swollen lymph nodes
- Any unexplained illness
Who Qualifies for Preventive Antibiotics?
A single dose of doxycycline may prevent Lyme disease only if all of the following are true:
- Tick is identified as a blacklegged (deer) tick (Ixodes species)
- Bite occurred in a Lyme-endemic area
- Tick was attached for ≥36 hours and possibly engorged
- Tick was removed within the last 72 hours
- Doxycycline is safe for you (not pregnant, allergic, or breastfeeding)
Dosing
- Adults: 200 mg doxycycline by mouth (single dose)
- Children: 4.4 mg/kg (max 200 mg), single dose
If you do not meet all these criteria, antibiotics are not recommended. Instead, monitor for symptoms and seek care if needed.
Other Tick-Borne Diseases
Doxycycline does not prevent other infections like anaplasmosis or babesiosis. Always monitor for symptoms following a tick bite.
How to Prevent Tick Bites
- Wear long sleeves and pants; tuck pants into socks
- Use insect repellent with DEET or wear permethrin-treated clothing
- Do a full-body tick check after outdoor activity
- Shower within 2 hours of coming indoors
- Dry clothing on high heat for 10+ minutes to kill ticks
Important Reminders
Even with antibiotics, Lyme disease isn’t always prevented. Early detection and treatment are key. Monitor your health closely and reach out to a provider with any concerns.