Health Emergency Guide: What to Do Immediately in the Case of a Tick Bite

tick bites If they are not treated properly, they can lead to serious health consequences. With the arrival of summer, the activity of these arachnids increases, and with it the risk of transmission of various diseases. It is extremely important to know what to do if you are bitten to minimize the chance of complications. For this reason The Ministry of Health has published “Guidelines for action against tick bites.”

First of all, it is important to understand that not all ticks are carriers of diseases, and their bite in many cases this results in only minor local trauma. However, sometimes they can transmit pathogens that cause infectious diseases, allergic reactions or even neurotoxicity.

Among the most common tick-borne diseases in Spain are: Mediterranean button fever and Lyme disease. The first is characterized by symptoms such as fever, malaise, and maculopapular rashwhereas Lyme disease may manifest erythema migrans and, in later stages, neurological problems and arthritis.

If a person is bitten by a tick, he should be informed that the risk of developing the disease is low. However, it is recommended to save observation for four weeks after the bitebecause it’s Maximum incubation period for tick-borne diseases (TBD).

If the tick is still attached to the skin, it should be Remove carefully with blunt-edged tongs., avoiding traditional methods such as using alcohol, oil or heat, which may increase the risk of infection. After extraction, The room should be disinfected with povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine.

It is important that healthcare providers are prepared to recognize the signs and symptoms of STDs and follow the appropriate protocol. If general symptoms such as fever or malaise occur, you should start treatment with doxycycline or amoxicillin and azithromycin in childrenand follow-up in primary or hospital care settings.

Prevention is the key to preventing tick bites. Recommended to use repellent, wear clothing that covers your skin, and inspect your body after outdoor activities.especially in areas where these creatures are common.

How to remove a tick

  1. If you find a tick attached to your body, remove it as soon as possible.
  2. Avoid traditional remedies such as oil, petroleum or heat.
  3. Use tweezers with blunt edges and fine tips. If you don’t have the right tweezers, you can remove it with your fingers wearing thin gloves. Try not to crush it.
  4. Hold it firmly as close to the skin as possible and gently pull upward as shown in the image (see picture).
  5. Wash the wound well with soap and water or apply an antiseptic.
  6. When finished, wash your hands well.

Infographic for removing a checkmarkMinistry of Health

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