Testing Procedures for Deer Ticks

The Pomperaug District Department of Health can send black-legged ticks (deer ticks) to be analyzed for the presence of the Lyme Disease bacteria. The Health District provides this free service for residents of Southbury, Woodbury and Oxford. Persons who find ticks on themselves or family members may bring the ticks to the Health District office at 800 Main Street South in Southbury. The ticks are sent to the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station for analysis. Results are available in 3-6 weeks, depending on how busy the lab is.

So far this year (2000), Tow hundred and twenty three ticks from our Health District have been tested for Lyme Disease. Fifty-one (23%) of these ticks were positive for the Lyme Disease bacteria.

Removal of Tick

Removing a tick can sometimes be difficult. To remove the tick properly, use the following procedure. Use fine-point tweezers to grasp the tick at the place of attachment, as close to the skin as possible. Gently pull the tick straight out. Place the tick in a small, clear vial or zip-lock baggie. Do not put the tick on a piece of tape or in alcohol. If you must remove the tick with your fingers, use a tissue or leaf to avoid contact with infected tick fluids. Do not prick, crush or burn the tick as it may release infected fluids or tissues. Do not try to smother the tick with petroleum jelly or nail polish – the tick will still have enough oxygen to complete its feeding.