Seed Ticks + Tick Bombs

What are Seed Ticks?

You may have heard of the term “Seed Tick” before, or perhaps even a “Tick Bomb” — and it probably conjures up some creepy image of being covered in hundreds or even thousands of tiny ticks. Well sadly, that’s not too far off; but there is no need to panic!

Seed ticks typically refers to primarily the larval stage tick that which has just hatched and hasn’t had its first blood meal. For this reason, larval stage ticks don’t tend to have any pathogens yet to pass along to their first meal host. The biggest issue with larval stage ticks, is the sheer number of them.

The term “seed tick” can also refer to any very small tick — which can include nymph stage ticks as well. A nymph tick has had its first blood meal, and therefore may well carry and transmit pathogens. Newly molted nymphal ticks are often nearly just as tiny as a partially fed larvae. Yet another reason why doing a thorough Tick Check is SO IMPORTANT!

Due to their small size, it’s extremely tough for tick larvae to bite and penetrate our tough [human] skin. In fact, the most common issue, is actually a bacterial infection due to not being removed properly. Sadly, that is NOT the case with nymph stage ticks which are much stronger and adept to feeding.

How to Remove Seed Ticks

Besides prevention (obviously), it’s important to remove larval ticks as quickly as possible, as to not spread them throughout your home or allow them to find your pets, etc.  One of the easiest ways to remove larval stage ticks is to use tape or an adhesive. Personally, we like using Lint Rollers, as they’re extremely quick and effective! Otherwise, just use the sticky side of tape to do the trick. Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick removal tool such as a Tick Twister to properly remove any embedded ticks, wash the bite site thoroughly, and treat as any other open wound (with some Triple-Antibiotic Ointment and a Band-Aid).