Tick Bites

It is important that ticks are removed swiftly to prevent the spread of disease. Tick bites are not painful, because the tick’s saliva contains a local anaesthetic that is injected into the skin.

Studies show that ticks normally need to be attached for between six and thirty-six hours to transmit Lyme disease, but the small size of a nymph means it can often go unnoticed until it has been feeding for a lengthy period and is engorged. Sometimes, it will drop off before the host realises they have been bitten.

Keep in mind the following steps to prevent tick bites:

• wear long-sleeve tops and trousers tucked into socks (or long socks)

• wear light coloured clothing so ticks can easily be spotted and brushed off

• keep to footpaths and avoid long grass when out walking

• use an insect repellent containing DEET on exposed skin

• check for ticks after outdoor activities and remove any as promptly as possible

• check children’s heads and neck areas, including their scalp

• check pets regularly to ensure they do not bring ticks into the home

Preventing a tick bite is always better than having to deal with one.

If you spot a tick, you must remove it carefully, as the head can remain stuck in while you have taken the body off, and it will continue to feed.

A tick removal tool, held close to the skin, is the best method to remove the entire tick. If you don't have one handy, try a pair of pointy tweezers – hold them as close to the part of the tick next to the skin as possible and ease it off with a gentle motion straight up. Freezing the tick off is another technique, but there are no specific treatments for this in the UK. However, freeze applicators to treat warts and verrucae can do the job.

Once the tick has been removed, it is recommended to place dead or alive in a container labelled with the date and location of tick contraction, and send it to the national Tick Surveillance Scheme which can be found on their website. Alternatively, the tick should be disposed of safely, wrapped in tape.

For calming any redness or itching, you can apply a soothing antihistamine cream or take a tablet.

You are fit for work if you have been bitten by a tick and feel well.

In a minority of cases, ticks can carry bacteria that can lead to infections such as Lyme disease. If you have been bitten by a tick, or think you may have been bitten by a tick there are some signs to watch out for that can indicate the need to see your doctor. If you have a rash that looks like a bullseye, you should take a photo and get checked for Lyme disease.

Similarly, if you have found a tick and develop flu-like symptoms, you should consult with your doctor urgently, who may send you for a blood test or prescribe antibiotic tablets.

There is no need to take antibiotics after a tick bite if you have no other symptoms, but just keep a watch for any symptoms over the next few days to weeks.