Last night we found this in our bed and my husband and I are freaking out. A couple of days ago, we spotted something thing on my kid’s clothes. What is it? How do we get rid of them?
Discovering a tick in your home requires prompt action to prevent potential health risks. Follow these steps:
- Identify and Isolate: Determine the type of tick (e.g., black-legged, dog, or brown dog tick) and isolate the affected area, keeping pets and children away.
- Protect Yourself: Wear gloves and long-sleeved clothing to avoid tick bites while handling or cleaning.
- Thorough Cleaning: Wash bedding or clothing where the tick was found in hot water and dry on high heat. Vacuum the area thoroughly, including corners and furniture. Dispose of the vacuum bag outside or clean the canister.
- Tick Removal: Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting. Clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
- Dispose of the Tick: Submerge the tick in alcohol, place it in a sealed bag, or flush it down the toilet.
- Monitor and Prevent: Watch for symptoms of tick-borne illnesses and consult a healthcare professional if necessary. Prevent future infestations by maintaining your yard, using tick preventatives on pets, and considering professional pest control.
