Tick Removal & Testing

Submitting a Tick

We will accept all ticks for identification but test only those Ixodes scapularis (deer) ticks that have ingested human blood (engorged). We will examine all ticks for degree of engorgement. Laboratory personnel will test engorged black-legged (deer) ticks (Ixodes scapularis) and, upon special request, certain other species of ticks for the presence of spirochetes that cause Lyme disease. We will not test the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), larval ticks of all species, or unengorged ticks.

Tick Removal & Testing Procedures:
Proper Tick Removal

• With a fine point tweezer, grasp tick at place of attachment, as close to skin as possible 
• Pull tick straight out - try not to squeeze the body 
• If submitting for testing, place in plastic bag or small container - it does not need to be alive. 
• Wash your hands, disinfect the tweezer, and the bite site - use rubbing alcohol 
• Call your doctor for advice on treatment - about 25% of ticks are infected with Lyme Disease.

Submitting Ticks to the Torrington Area Health District for Testing
(This is a service for communities in the Torrington Area Health District only)

*There is a $10.00 Fee for submitting ticks to the CT Agricultural Experiment Station

Click HERE for the Tick Submission Form
​Be sure to include your email address!