What Is Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever?
10. Preventative Measures: Tick Removal
If you find a tick that has attached to your skin, removal reduces the chances of contracting RMSF. To remove the tick, it is best to use tweezers; however, care must be taken in the process. Grasp the tick as close to your body as possible, but do not crush it. Pull gently, straight away from your body, without tugging or twisting.
It may take several seconds before the tick removes its head, as it will not want to stop feeding. Once you do get the tick out, place it in a baggy with a little rubbing alcohol to kill it and keep it for later testing if needed. Thoroughly wash the bite area with soap and hot water. Stay alert to possible signs of RMSF.
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