Some ticks transmit bacteria that cause illnesses such as Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Your risk of contracting one of these diseases depends on where you live or travel to, how much time you spend in wooded areas, and how well you protect yourself.
What to do if a tick bites you
Remove the tick promptly and carefully. Use tweezers to grasp the tick near its head or mouth and pull gently to remove the whole tick without crushing it.
Use soap and water to wash your hands and the area around the tick bite after handling the tick.
Call your doctor if you aren’t able to completely remove the tick.
See your doctor if you develop:
A rash
A fever
A stiff neck
Muscle aches
Joint pain and inflammation
Swollen lymph nodes
Flu-like symptoms
Light sensitivity to the eyes or skin (photosensitivity)
Call for medical help if you develop:
A severe headache
Difficulty breathing
Paralysis
Chest pain or heart palpitations