What is the proper way to remove a tick?
The Lyme Disease Foundation recommends these steps: To remove a tick properly: * Use fine-point tweezers to grasp the tick at the place of attachment–as close to the skin as possible. * Gently pull the tick straight out. Do not twist or squeeze it as you pull it out. * Place the tick along with a blade of grass or slightly dampened cotton ball in a small vial labeled with the person’s name, address, and the date. * Have the tick identified and/or tested by a lab, health department, physician or veterinarian, if available. * Wash your hands and disinfect the tweezers. Disinfect the site of the bite as well. * Call your doctor to determine if treatment is indicated. Cautions: * Children must be told to seek adult help for tick removal. * If you must remove the tick with your fingers, use a tissue or a leaf to avoid direct contact with the infected tick fluids. * Do not prick, crush, squeeze, or burn the tick, as it may release infected fluids or tissue. * Don’t try to smother the tick (
