What is the recommended method to remove a tick?

• A. Fine tweezers, pull straight out
• B. Use a hot needle to burn the tick
• C. Twist the tick and pull at an angle
• D. Squeeze the body to express venom and remove

Answer: (A)

Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible with fine-tipped tweezers and pull straight out with steady, even pressure. This approach removes the tick without twisting or squeezing, which helps prevent the mouthparts from breaking off and reduces the chance of pushing pathogens into the bite. Other methods—twisting, burning, or squeezing the body—can shove fluids into the bite, leave embedded mouthparts behind, or cause the tick to regurgitate, increasing infection risk. After removal, wash the area and your hands, and, if mouthparts remain, remove them with the tweezers. Monitor for any signs of illness in the coming weeks and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.