
07/24/2025
🚨 Tick Bite Season: What You Need to Know 🚨
Tiny tick, big consequences—especially if you’re in an area where Lyme disease is common. Here’s what to do if you or your child gets a tick bite:
🔍 Spot the Culprit
Most Lyme disease cases are caused by Ixodes scapularis (deer tick) bites—when they’re immature—they’re the size of a poppy seed!
⏳ Timing Matters
Transmission of Borrelia burgdorferi (the Lyme disease bacteria) usually occurs after 36–72 hours of attachment. The risk increases if the tick is engorged.
🧤 Safe Removal
Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward with steady pressure. Avoid twisting or crushing the tick.
💊 Preventive Antibiotics
See your healthcare provider to find out if a single dose of doxycycline is right for you.
❌ No Blood Test Needed
Blood testing is not recommended immediately after a tick bite to diagnose Lyme disease, as antibodies are not detectable at this early stage and results could be misleading.
👀 Keep an eye out
Just monitor for symptoms like a bullseye rash (erythema migrans), fever, or fatigue. See your healthcare provider if symptoms develop.
👉 If you think you have a tick bite, don’t wait—check in with your healthcare provider. Early action can help prevent Lyme disease. 🦠
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📲 212-794-0800
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