Ever spotted a tiny deer tick on you? Knowing how to remove it promptly is crucial. These minuscule pests can transmit Lyme disease, a severe and potentially debilitating condition, if left attached to your skin for more than 36-48 hours. Luckily, there are measures you can take to reduce your risk of being bitten and manage tick bites if they do occur.

AFC Urgent Care Southington is here to guide you through Lyme disease and deer ticks, ensuring your safety outdoors this season!

Preventing Deer Tick Bites

Avoiding tick bites altogether is the best approach. Here are some pointers to help minimize your risk:

• Steer clear of wooded or grassy areas: These environments are prime habitats for ticks, so it's best to avoid them if possible. If you must venture into these areas, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and tuck your pants into your socks to limit skin exposure.
• Maintain a tidy yard: Regularly maintain your yard and keep the grass trimmed short. This makes it less inviting to ticks and other pests.
• Use insect repellents: Apply insect repellents containing DEET or other EPA-approved repellents to your skin, and permethrin to your clothing to repel ticks effectively.
• Shower after outdoor activities: Take a shower as soon as you return indoors, and carefully inspect your body for ticks. Utilize a mirror or enlist the help of a partner to check hard-to-see areas.
• Check your pets: Pets can also fall victim to tick bites and contract Lyme disease, so be sure to inspect them regularly for ticks.

Dealing with Tick Bites

If you find yourself bitten by a tick, swift action is crucial to minimize the risk of Lyme disease. Here's what to do:

• Remove the tick: Use fine-tipped tweezers to carefully remove the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible. Avoid twisting or jerking the tick, as this may cause its mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin. If this occurs, use tweezers to remove the remaining parts if possible.
• Clean the area: After removing the tick, cleanse the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
• Seek evaluation: Have the tick bite evaluated by a medical professional. If feasible, save the tick in a ziplock bag to confirm if it was a deer tick that bit you.

Why Choose AFC Urgent Care Southington for Tick Removal?

If you're uncertain about removing the tick yourself or uncomfortable doing so, AFC Urgent Care Southington is here to assist. Our staff is trained to safely and effectively remove ticks. Remember, the longer the tick remains attached, the greater the risk of contracting Lyme disease, so seek medical attention promptly.

AFC Urgent Care Southington is available seven days a week for tick removal. While appointments are not required, they are welcomed. Most insurance plans are accepted! Don't forget about our convenient online payment portal, where you can settle your bill with just a few clicks