Should I Be Concerned About Ticks?

While many people are concerned after being bitten by a tick, the risk of acquiring a tick-borne infection is quite low, even if the tick has been attached, fed, and is actually carrying an infectious agent. Ticks transmit infection only after they have attached and are taking a blood meal from their new host.

Should I be worried if I find a tick on me?

But please don't panic. It's important to properly remove the tick as soon as you find it. The longer it's attached, the higher the chances it will transmit Lyme disease (studies show that other tick-borne illnesses are transmitted to your bloodstream in a matter of minutes).

What are the chances of getting a disease from a tick?

The chance of catching Lyme disease from an individual tick ranges from roughly zero to 50 percent. Risk of contracting Lyme disease from a tick bite depends on three factors: the tick species, where the tick came from, and how long it was biting you.