How to Remove a Tick

Safely remove an embedded tick using fine-tipped tweezers.

1. Grab the tick with fine-tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible

   Don't squeeze the body — grip right where the mouthparts enter the skin.

2. Pull straight up with steady, even pressure

   Don't twist or jerk — this can cause the mouthparts to break off in the skin.

3. Clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water

   If mouthparts broke off, try to remove them with the tweezers. If you can't, leave them alone and let the skin heal.

4. Watch the bite for 30 days for a rash, fever, or flu-like symptoms

   A bullseye-shaped rash or unexplained fever means see a doctor — these are signs of Lyme disease or other tick-borne illness.