Home care for a tick bite includes:

• Remove the tick completely.
• Clean the skin gently:
• 2-3 times a day
• Use mild soap and water.
• Do not scrub the skin.
• Apply antibiotic ointment.
• Cover the wound:
• Use gauze or an elastic bandage.
• Do not scratch the wound.
• Apply 1% hydrocortisone cream for itching:
• Apply to the skin, 4 times a day.

Tetanus Considerations
A tetanus shot is necessary right away if you have not had three tetanus shots in the past.

If you have received three tetanus shots in the past, you need a tetanus shot within three days for a dirty wound.