Ticks can attach to any part of the human body but prefer body creases

and areas with hair such as the groin, armpits, sock line and scalp.

1. Using fine-tipped tweezers, grasp the tick by the head as close to the

skin as possible then gently, but firmly, pull it straight out. Do not twist

or jerk the tick, apply petroleum jelly, a hot match, or other irritants.

This can lead to infection because the tick's mouth parts may remain

embedded, or you may be burned. Use your fingernails and tissue

paper if tweezers are not available.

2. Immediately wash the bite area and your hands with soap and water

then apply an antiseptic to the bite wound.

3. If in doubt of tick identification, place the tick in a small vial containing

a damp piece of tissue and submit it to your local health department

for examination.