Ticks are small, blood-sucking insects that latch on to humans and other mammals. They can carry a number of diseases, which is why many people immediately pull them off, but this can result in infection. Here’s a quick guide to the right technique and some pest control tips to avoid ticks in the future.

How to Remove a Tick

Grasp Close to the Skin

First, grab a pair of fine-tipped tweezers. Maneuver one end below the tick’s body and as close as possible to the surface of your skin. Grasp the tick and prepare to pull.

Using your fingers or another tool to grasp the body may leave the tick’s mouth behind, which can cause infection. You may also accidentally squeeze fluids from the tick back into your bloodstream or spread them.

You can purchase a tick removal tool if you want an alternative to tweezers.

Pull Upward

Once you have a firm hold with the tweezers, slowly pull the tick directly away from the skin. Jerking or twisting it could break off part of the mouth. Once you’ve removed it, place it in alcohol or flush it down the toilet.

Clean the Area

Clean the bite with rubbing alcohol or another antiseptic. You may also want to call your doctor to let them know you’ve been bitten.

Look out for signs of complications in the following days. A rash or ring around the bite, joint pain, and flu-like symptoms can all be early signs of health issues.

How to Avoid Ticks

Ticks often hide in tall grasses, brush piles, and wooded areas, so wear long-sleeved clothing when you travel through these places. Check for ticks after your walk, particularly in hard-to-see places like behind your ears and knees, in your hair, and under your arms.

If ticks have become a problem on your property, contact pest control professionals to treat the area.

 

Residents of Wahiawa turn to Aloha Termite & Pest Control to handle ticks, rodents, bedbugs, and other pests. This pest control company has served the area since 1999 and offers a five-year warranty on their fumigation services. Call (808) 622-2268 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to explore their full scope of services.