Quick Answer
If you suspect a tick has bitten you and you want to test it for Lyme disease, send the tick to a laboratory for analysis. This involves placing the tick in a sealed container and mailing it to a lab. Testing the tick can confirm the presence of the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria that cause Lyme disease.
Identifying the Right Tick to Test
To accurately determine if a tick carries Lyme disease, it’s essential to test a tick that has been attached to your skin for at least 36 hours. This is because the bacteria need time to be transmitted from the tick to the human host. If the tick has been attached for less than 36 hours, it may not have had enough time to transmit the bacteria.
Preparing the Tick for Testing
To send a tick to a laboratory for analysis, place it in a sealed container with a moist paper towel. This will help keep the tick alive and hydrated during shipping. Use a standard envelope and mail the tick to a laboratory that specializes in tick-borne disease testing. Be sure to include a completed submission form with your name, address, and any other required information.
Choosing a Laboratory for Testing
When selecting a laboratory to test your tick, choose one that is certified by the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD) or the National Veterinary Laboratory Association (NVLA). These organizations ensure that laboratories meet high standards for testing and accuracy. Be sure to ask the laboratory about their testing methods and turnaround time to ensure you receive your results in a timely manner.
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