Proper tick removal techniques still elude some, doctors say

With cases of Lyme disease on the rise in Eastern Ontario in recent years, some doctors say they're surprised that after many warnings about ticks, many people still don't know how to properly remove them.

Ticks attach themselves to people by burying their heads into skin.

Dr. Annemarie Allart, who works in health services at the University of Ottawa, said she's seen far too many people who don't know what to do. About 90 per cent of her patients have incorrectly pulled out the bug, she said.

"I've seen it all: lighting a match, pencils, fingernails, needles, everything they shouldn't be doing," Allart said.

"If they leave body parts in or if they squeeze, that can release the bacteria in the skin and make them sick."

The right way to dispose of a tick is to use tweezers.

Grab the part of the tick that's closest to the surface of the skin and pull up gently without twisting. Then make sure to wash the skin with soapy water immediately.

Pet owners can check out the video in the player above for more info on what to do about ticks on animals.

Lyme disease prevention measures

• Watch for ticks from early spring to late fall every year.
• Avoid tick habitats such as tall grass, bushes and woods. Stay in the middle of trails, if possible.
• Do a "tick check" at the end of every day spent outdoors. Carefully inspect yourself for any ticks, starting at your ankles and moving up. Take special care around your knees, armpits and head.
• Blacklegged ticks are very small, particularly during the nymph stage, so look carefully.
• Check children and pets as well.
• Wear light-colored clothing, because it is  easier to see and remove ticks
• Wear long pants and a long sleeved shirt.
• Wear closed footwear and socks
• Tuck your pants into your socks.
• Use an insect repellent that has "DEET".  Always read and follow label directions.

(Source: Ottawa Public Health)