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Infectious Diseases Lyme Disease

Applying baby oil to an embedded tick eases removal.


Removing an embedded tick, especially the smaller deer tick known to harbor Lyme bacteria, can be troublesome. Drowning the tick in baby oil before removing it with tweezers may cause the tick release its grip. Infection with the Lyme bacteria can cause a rash, joint inflammation, and flu-like symptoms. Antibiotic treatment initiated at the earliest sign of infection can help prevent serious complications of undiagnosed Lyme disease.


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