East Greenwich Pediatrics

https://tickencounter.org/prevention/tick_removal

What if a piece of tick is still left behind after I remove the tick?

Do not worry if you cannot get the tick entirely removed, just do your best.  If a piece of tick (like the head) is still stuck, treat it like you would a splinter with warm soaks and apply a topical antibiotic ointment like neosporin or bacitracin.

How do I treat the site of the bite after I get the tick out?

Wash the area with soap and water and apply a topical antibiotic ointment like neosporin or bacitracin.

How do I identify what kind of tick it is?  

https://tickencounter.org/tick_identification/tickid_nonflash

Should I save the tick or send it for testing?

We assume that most ticks in Rhode Island carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease and treat patients accordingly.  You do not need to save the tick or have it tested as it will not change how we treat your child.

What symptoms of Lyme disease should I watch for?

https://www.cdc.gov/lyme/signs_symptoms/index.html

https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/tickbornediseases/lyme.html (scroll down for excellent pictures of Erythema Migrans rashes AKA “bulls-eye”)

Is there a medicine that helps to prevent Lyme disease if my child has been bit by a deer tick?

We recommend one dose of doxycycline as Lyme disease prophylaxis (to help prevent Lyme disease) in children if the tick was embedded (stuck in) for more than 24 hours and it has been less than 72 hours from the time you removed the tick.  Please call the office to discuss with the doctor.  This is only necessary if it is a deer tick.

What other diseases are transmitted by ticks?

https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/diseases/index.html

How can I prevent my child from getting bit by ticks?

https://tickencounter.org/prevention

When should I call the office?

Any symptoms of Lyme disease (especially rash, fever, joint swelling) or other tick borne illness or any questions or concerns.