Tick Bite Evaluation in Novi, MI

TICK BITES IN NOVI, MI

Michigan has deer ticks — and prompt evaluation matters

Michigan is home to the black-legged deer tick (Ixodes scapularis), which can transmit Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and other tick-borne illnesses. Tick activity in Oakland County and surrounding areas peaks in spring and fall, but ticks can be active any time temperatures are above freezing. If you have found a tick attached to your skin — or think you may have been bitten — our providers can evaluate you, assess your risk, and prescribe preventive treatment when appropriate. Early treatment is highly effective. Untreated Lyme disease can cause serious long-term complications.

Where can I get a tick bite evaluated in Novi, MI?

PrimeCare Urgent Care evaluates tick bites on a walk-in basis at 39555 W. Ten Mile Road, Suite 301, Novi, MI 48375. No appointment needed. We assess Lyme disease risk, prescribe prophylactic doxycycline when appropriate, and provide wound care. Call (248) 426-9680 or book online.

Are there deer ticks in Michigan that carry Lyme disease?

Yes. Michigan has black-legged deer ticks (Ixodes scapularis) that can transmit Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and other tick-borne illnesses. Tick activity is highest in spring and fall but ticks can be found year-round in Oakland County parks, wooded areas, and tall grass. The risk of Lyme disease transmission significantly increases if a tick has been attached for more than 36 hours.

Should I go to urgent care after a tick bite in Michigan?

Yes — especially if the tick was attached for more than 36 hours, you cannot identify the tick type, you develop any symptoms, or you are in a Lyme-endemic area like Oakland County. A single dose of doxycycline taken within 72 hours of a high-risk bite is approximately 87% effective at preventing Lyme disease. Come to PrimeCare Urgent Care in Novi for prompt evaluation.

What does a Lyme disease rash look like?

The classic Lyme disease rash is called erythema migrans — a red, expanding ring around the bite site that looks like a bull’s-eye. It typically appears 3 to 30 days after the bite and may be warm to the touch but is usually not painful or itchy. Importantly, not all Lyme cases produce this rash — some people have no visible rash at all. If you have been bitten by a tick and develop any rash, fever, fatigue, or joint pain, come in for evaluation immediately.

How do I safely remove a tick?

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure — do not twist or jerk. Do not use petroleum jelly, heat, nail polish, or other substances to remove a tick as these methods can cause the tick to release more fluid into the bite. After removal, clean the bite site with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. Save the tick in a sealed bag if possible and come in for evaluation, especially if the tick may have been attached for more than 36 hours.