Tickpedia
Removal · field guidance

Cleaning the bite site after removal (alcohol, soap+water)

After removal, clean the bite with rubbing alcohol or soap and water — both work, neither requires antibiotics for a routine bite.

Steps

schema.org/HowTo
  1. 01
    Wash the bite area thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
  2. 02
    Pat dry, then swab with 70% isopropyl alcohol, povidone-iodine, or chlorhexidine.
  3. 03
    Apply a thin layer of plain petrolatum if the skin is irritated; skip antibiotic ointments unless a clinician recommends one.
  4. 04
    Cover with a small adhesive bandage if the area will rub against clothing.
  5. 05
    Do not scrub — scrubbing can drive contaminants deeper and worsen the local reaction.

Wild facts

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