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Prevention Tick Removal

Proper Tick Removal

tick_removalTicks should be removed promptly. The longer it is attached the higher the risk of disease transmission.

Most Lyme infections come from nymphal (immature) ticks, which are the size of a pinhead

Here are the most common directions for properly removing an attached tick:

  1. Use a fine-tipped tweezers to firmly but gently grasp the tick's mouthparts as close to the skin as possible.
  2. Gently pull the tick straight out, with slow but constant pressure, being careful not to twist or jerk it, as this can leave the tick’s mouthparts in your skin.
  3. Be careful not to squeeze, crush, or puncture the tick's body as doing so may cause it to release infected fluids into the wound. For the same reason, do NOT use a hot match, petroleum jelly, soap, nail polish, etc. to smother the tick, as irritating it may cause it to accelerate the transmission of the diseases it carries.
  4. Thoroughly disinfect the tick-bite wound, the tweezers, and the hands of the person removing it.
  5. Place the tick in a Zip-Loc bag or vial and refrigerate it. The addition of moist cotton ball will keep the tick alive; preservatives and alcohol are not necessary. Label the bag/vial with the person's name, address, estimated time of attachment, and the date the tick was removed.
  6. Have the tick tested by a lab, health department, or veterinarian.
  7. Seek immediate medical attention, especially if you develop any kind of rash at the site or elsewhere on the body or any symptoms of illness

Alternative Methods

From the Dr. E. Murakemi Center for Lyme, the video below shows Dr. Murakemi's "Blist &Straw and Knot Methods" of tick removal.

Blister Method: This method was developed together with Dr. Nima Shojania, 2nd Year Medical Student, UBC. This method is recommended for doctors in emergency room settings or everyday practice. The solution used is 1% Xylocaine with Adrenaline (pre-packaged units of 0.3cc injected intradermally.)
 
Straw and Knot Method:  This method was developed together with Dr. Susan Christie, 2nd Year Medical Student, UBC. This method is meant to service the general public.

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