Ticks are an Important Source of Data
During the Tick-Borne Illness Global Summit, our CEO Erin Dawicki, discussed what tick data can - and can’t - tell you. She also highlighted the critical need to shift from panicking over a tick bite to testing the vector rather than waiting weeks for antibody blood tests or mail-in tick tests.
To gather important information following a tick bite, here’s where to start:
Remove the tick immediately and thoroughly clean the bite area using rubbing alcohol or soap and water. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible, pulling upward with steady, even pressure to avoid leaving the mouthparts behind.
Once the tick is removed, record the date, geographical location, and estimated attachment window, and take a clear photograph of the tick for identification purposes. Documenting these specific details creates an accurate timeline that will be incredibly useful for medical professionals. Additionally, consider saving the tick in a sealed plastic bag, as testing a tick directly can provide insights into potential pathogen exposure.
Check your local health guidance and contact a healthcare provider to determine next steps.
By keeping all of this information organized in one place, you ensure that you maintain a clear, comprehensive picture for your clinical provider. Presenting a complete history - with photo, dates, and a symptom log - helps make more accurate and proactive treatment decisions rather than waiting for symptoms that may or may not appear.
