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## Part 2: Systemic Symptoms of Early Lyme Disease
If a tick bite goes untreated, the infection can spread, leading to:
* Unexplained flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, and body aches.
* Severe persistent headaches and neck stiffness.
* Fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and migrating joint pain.
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## Part 3: Essential Steps for Safe Tick Removal and Care
1. **Use Fine-Tipped Tweezers:** Grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure without twisting or jerking to avoid severing the head inside the skin.
2. **Never Use Unproven Methods:** Do not apply burning matches, alcohol, nail polish, or petroleum jelly to the tick; suffocating the tick forces it to regurgitate fluids into the bloodstream, increasing infection risk.
3. **Disinfect Thoroughly:** Clean the bite site and your hands with rubbing alcohol or iodine soap after removal.
4. **Monitor the Site for 30 Days:** Take a clear photograph of the bite area and note the date. If an expanding rash or fever develops, consult a Belgian healthcare provider promptly for antibiotic therapy.
