The recommended way of

removing a tick is to grasp it as close to the skin as possible with a pair of tweezers, and pull gently at a 90-degree angle to the skin.  It is not recommended to try smothering them with Vaseline or singeing them with a blown-out match.

If part of the head remains under the skin,

don't try to dig it out.  The skin will eventually get rid of the retained material on its own, and digging at it will only cause unnecessary damage.  Retained mouth parts don't affect the risk of infection.

(This is in keeping with recommendations from the Infectious Disease Society of America.)  Treating people with antibiotics they don't need increases the risk of resistance in the future, making the medicine less effective when it's truly necessary.

The most recognizable

sign of lyme disease is a target-like rash on the skin, spreading outward from the spot where the tick was found.  There's a picture on our website, along with more information about lyme.  If you have concerns about any symptoms your child is experiencing, we are always happy to have you contact us or come in for an appointment.

The best thing to do about tick bites is

prevent them.  If your child is going to be in a wooded area, long sleeves and pants tucked into socks can help.  Insect repellents

 containing DEET (to spray on clothing) are also recommended.  Finally, check your children daily for tick bites, as it takes more than a day for a tick to transmit lyme disease.