The Bug Bite Guide

Ticks can transmit Lyme disease and other illnesses through their bites or stings. A neurotoxin (a substance that is toxic to nerves) is secreted at the time of attachment to make the bite unnoticeable. The neurotoxin can cause muscle weakness or paralysis.

Use fine-tipped tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure.

Don't twist the tick to ensure complete removal. If you are unable to remove the mouth easily with clean tweezers, leave it alone and let the skin heal.

After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water.