What should you know about tick bite fever?

A fever may occur with a tick-borne infection, but the bite itself does not identify the cause. Tell the clinician where and when the bite happened, whether the tick was attached, and whether a rash, headache, muscle aches, swollen glands, vomiting, or unusual tiredness followed. A red, warm, painful area that expands can suggest cellulitis. Colds, COVID-19, bronchitis, chickenpox, and other infections can also cause fever without being related to the bite. Diagnosis depends on the examination and local exposure history.

Arrange prompt medical advice if fever develops after a tick bite, especially when symptoms are worsening or a rash appears. Drink fluids if you can, rest, and check your temperature using the same method each time. Do not scratch the bite. If the tick remains attached, remove it with fine-tipped tweezers by pulling steadily close to the skin, then clean the area and your hands. Keep a note or photograph of the tick if this can be done safely.

Seek emergency help for severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, fainting, breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting, a rapidly spreading rash, or marked weakness. Urgent review is also needed when the bite area becomes increasingly painful, hot, swollen, or produces pus. Children, pregnant people, older adults, and people with weakened immunity should seek advice promptly when fever follows a bite.

Ask which infections are relevant to the place of exposure, whether tests are useful now or later, how to monitor the rash, and which fever medicines are suitable for you. Mention travel, outdoor work, pets, and any medicines or health conditions.