How-To: Removing a Tick
Many ticks in New Jersey can carry harmful diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease and the latest disease POW (Powassan). These insects aren’t just pests, but pose serious health risks as well. To learn more please about these diseases, please visit the CDC website.
The deer tick is very tiny. It’s no larger than a pencil point! Can you believe that? Other ticks are larger and can be easier to find on the skin. Click here to learn more about identifying different types of ticks.
If you are already using Mosquito Joe, then your yard is protected from ticks, fleas and mosquitoes! But for the days where you are out in wooded areas or at your children’s sporting events, it is possible that you will find ticks on you or your family members. Ticks are very active in New Jersey right now so we wanted to provide you with a quick how-to for the removal process!
The Best Way to Remove a Tick:
- Use a clean sterile tweezer to grasp the tick firmly at its head or mouth next to your skin. Note: do not grab the tick around its body. That could push infected fluid from the tick into your body if you squeeze it.
- Next, pull upward and firmly until the tick is off of your skin. Do not twist it out.
- It is recommended to put the tick in a zip-locked bag. We also suggest calling your primary doctor or pediatrician for advice. Submerge the tick in rubbing alcohol to kill it prior to putting in a bag. Your doctor may have you bring the tick in to be tested. Watch for symptoms such as the telltale “bulls-eye” rash, a flu-like feeling, fever, headache, and joint or muscle pains.
- Be sure to wash your hands and affected area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
- Check yourself rigorously for ticks every day. That way if you are bitten, you’ll know the tick has been attached for less than 24 hours.
Be sure to follow our Facebook page and blog for updated information about ticks and mosquitoes, special offers and more.
If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment for service, please contact us at wayne@mosquitojoe.com.
We wish you a safe, happy and tick-free summer!
