• Knowledgebase: Information on Specific Illnesses

    Here you will find discussions of specific illnesses and their management.

    14. Prevention of Tick-Borne Infections - Top

    This information is excerpted from the AAP Red Book 2000:

    Physicians, parents, and children should be aware that ticks transmit diseases.

    Tick-infested areas should be avoided whenever possible.

    If a tick-infested area is entered, clothing that covers the arms, legs, and other exposed areas should be worn, pants tucked into boots or socks, and long-sleeved shirts buttoned at the cuff. In addition, permethrin can be sprayed onto clothes to decrease tick attachment. Permethrin should NOT be sprayed onto skin.

    Tick and insect repellents that contain DEET applied to the skin provide additional protection but require reapplication every 1 to 2 hours for maximum effectiveness. While there have been rare reports of serious neurologic complications from frequent and excessive application of DEET-containing insect repellents, the risk is low when they are used properly. DEET should be applied sparingly according to product label instructions and not applied to a child's face, hands, or skin that is irritated or abraded. After the child returns indoors, treated skin should be washed with soap and water.

    Persons should inspect themselves and their children's bodies and clothing daily after possible tick exposure. Special attention should be given to the exposed hairy regions of the body where ticks often attach, including the head and neck in children. Ticks should be removed promptly. For removal, a tick should be grasped with a find tweezers close to the skin and gently pulled straight out without twisting motions. If fingers are used to remove ticks, they should be protected with tissue and washed after removal of the tick. Care should be taken to avoid squeezing the body of the tick.

    Maintaining tick-free pets may reduce tick exposure. Daily inspection of pets and removal of ticks are indicated.
    - Updated: June 29, 2001

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    • James L Horwitz, MD

    David C. Thomas, MD

    Barbara Lindberg, PNP