Tennessee Doctors Urge Tick Checks and Safe Removal as Record U.S. Season Drives More Bites
Updated
Updated · Action News 5 · Jul 9
Tennessee Doctors Urge Tick Checks and Safe Removal as Record U.S. Season Drives More Bites
3 articles · Updated · Action News 5 · Jul 9
Summary
Tennessee doctors warned residents to check for ticks after outdoor activity and get medical care for bull’s-eye rashes, fever, joint pain or any tick parts left in the skin.
CDC data show a record U.S. tick season is producing more bites, raising the risk of Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis and other illnesses if bites go untreated.
Dr. Brian Wilcox of Ascension Saint Thomas said prompt removal with fine-tipped tweezers, then cleaning with soap and water or rubbing alcohol, can reduce the chance of serious complications.
Ascension Saint Thomas also advised saving the removed tick in a sealed container with a damp paper towel for possible testing, while avoiding online remedies such as nail polish, petroleum jelly or a hot match.
Early diagnosis and antibiotics can prevent more severe illness, and doctors urged people heading outdoors for summer activities to use insect repellent.