Tick Season Safety

As tick season ramps up, the Chester County Health Department would like to share important resources to support efforts in protecting the public from tick-borne diseases.

It is strongly recommended to conduct a full body check after spending time outside. Remember to search:

• In and around head/hair

• In and around ears

• Under arms

• Inside belly button

• Around waist

• Between legs

• Behind knees

If you do find a tick, proper removal is key. Grasp the tick close to the skin with tweezers. Pull straight up/away from your body. Ensure that none of the tick remains attached to your skin. Dispose of the tick by flushing down the toilet, placing in a plastic bag or securing in a piece of tape.

DO NOT cover the tick with petroleum jelly or use a match to cause the tick to release. Also, do not wait for the tick to fall off. Contact your doctor if you develop a rash or fever.

For more information, please visit: www.cdc.gov/ticks