Right after removing a tick.

  • Clean the area

  • Wash hands

  • Save the tick (optional)

  • Note the date

What to Do After a Tick Bite

This guidance is based on CDC recommendations and real-world experience.

First aid kit with a pair of tweezers, a plastic evidence bag, and an insect identification card showing ticks on a white surface.

  • A rash (especially a bullseye-shaped rash)

  • Fever or chills

  • Fatigue

  • Headache

  • Muscle or joint aches

Watch for symptoms over the next few weeks

An educational infographic about a bullseye rash showing a close-up of a red, circular rash on skin, with accompanying text explaining what a bullseye rash looks like and important notes.

*Most tick bites do not lead to illness, especially when handled properly.

where ticks live

Contact a doctor if you notice a rash, flu-like symptoms, increasing redness, or anything that doesn’t feel right.