[Birdtalk] Fwd: Tick removal

[Utah Birds]

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Date: Wed, 28 Mar 2007 18:20:51 -0600 (MDT)

It was submitted by Alton Thygerson.
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Subject: Tick removal

Email_Address: thygerson at byu.edu

Message: It was unclear if the recent posting about a tick-removal procedure using masking tape on a roller was applicable for removing an embedded in the skin tick or removing ticks not attached but crawling on one's body and/or clothing. It would work if the tick is loose and unattached. However, for an embedded tick, it will not.

First, prevention is better than treatment. An easily applied repellent containing DEET is moderately effective in reducing the risk of tick bites (source: Wilderness and Environmental Medicine 13:1, pp. 12-20).

The medically proven method of removing an embedded tick involves using a commercial tick removal device (e.g., Tick Plier, Original Ticked Off, or Pro-Tick Remedy) or medium-tipped tweezers. Grab the tick as close to the skin as possible; pull up with steady, even pressure until the tick releases (may take a minute or more). Do not twist or jerk the tick. If mouthparts break off and stay in the skin, remove them with tweezers. (source: Wilderness and Environmental Medicine, 75:997-1002)

Another procedure is the "knot method." This involves string being tied in a simple overhand knot next to the victim's skin and around the tick's mouthparts. Then, use the same method as described for commerical tick devices or tweezers.

What to do afterward can be found in my Wilderness First Aid Field Guide (page 31-32) ordered through Amazon. com.

Alton Thygerson

 
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