Published on April 07, 2026

Tick Bites in Southwest Michigan

Close-up of a tick on a green leaf

As the weather warms up across Southwest Michigan, outdoor activities increase, and so does the risk of tick bites. While most tick bites do not cause disease, some can lead to serious illness, including Lyme disease.

Knowing how to prevent tick bites, safely remove ticks and recognize symptoms of illness can help protect you and your family.

In This Article

Common Ticks in Southwest Michigan

The Michigan Department of Health & Human Services offers a guide to the five common ticks found in our area.

View the Michigan tick guide.

Tick-Borne Illnesses to Know About

Lyme disease is the tick-borne illness most people are familiar with. However, ticks can also spread other diseases with similar symptoms, including:

  • Rocky Mountain spotted fever
  • Ehrlichiosis
  • Tularemia

To learn more about Lyme disease, visit the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services website.

How to Remove a Tick

If you find a tick attached to the skin, remove it as soon as possible.

  • Use a fine-tipped forceps or tweezers.
  • Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
  • Pull straight out with steady pressure. Do not twist.
  • Wash the bite area with soap and water.
  • Apply an antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin or Polysporin, to help reduce the risk of secondary bacterial infection.

How to Help Prevent Tick Bites

Prevention is the best way to reduce the risk of tick bites and tick-borne illness.

  • Use insect repellents containing no more than 30% DEET.
  • Use repellents containing permethrin on clothing, not on skin.
  • After spending time outdoors, check your skin and clothing for ticks.
  • Take a shower within two hours of being in brush or wooded areas.
  • Check outdoor pets every day.

When to Call Your Child’s Pediatrician

If your child becomes ill after a tick bite, contact their pediatrician if they develop symptoms such as:

  • Fever
  • Rash
  • Body aches
  • Fatigue

Resources

  • Red Book: 2018-2021 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases, 31st Edition, American Academy of Pediatrics
  • Michigan Department of Health & Human Services, michigan.gov
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John Spitzer, MD

Pediatrician

“I am thankful every day to be a pediatrician. I enjoy being able to work with kids. They are deserving of the best care and compassion that I can provide.”

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