Finding a lone star tick attached to your skin can be alarming, but removing it promptly and correctly is essential. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Clean the bite area and your hands afterward, and avoid folk remedies such as petroleum jelly, nail polish, or heat. Lone star ticks can transmit certain infections and have been associated with alpha-gal syndrome, a condition that can cause allergic reactions to red meat. Finding a tick does not automatically mean you will become ill, but monitor for symptoms and contact a healthcare professional if you develop a rash, fever, or other concerning signs…READ MORE BELOW