Back to First Aid

Tick bites: First aid

Most tick bites are painless and cause only minor signs and symptoms, such as a change in skin color, swelling or a sore on the skin.

But some ticks spread bacteria that cause illnesses, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. In general, to spread Lyme disease a tick needs to be attached to a person’s skin for at least 36 hours. Other infections can be transferred in a few hours or even a few minutes.

Call 911 or your local emergency number if you develop:

To take care of a tick bite:

Contact your healthcare professional if:

If possible, bring the tick, or a photo of the tick, with you to your doctor’s appointment.

© 1998-2024 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved.

We Make Health Possible

As East Central Indiana’s population grows, we’re putting health care where people need it most. Besides Hancock Regional Hospital, ranked as one of the nation’s safest by the Lown Hospital Index, our network includes more than 30 other locations near your home or work.

Learn More about Hancock