07/21/2026
Are you spending your July hiking around Rainbow Mountain, exploring the Bradford Creek Greenway or just cleaning up your backyard? 🌲🚶♂️
Outdoor time is a staple of a Madison summer but local health officials urge North Alabama residents to stay highly alert for tick activity this month.
Knowing how to react to a tick bite can prevent serious complications. Save this guide and use our quick urgent care checklist before your next outdoor adventure:
1. The 24-Hour Removal Window 🕒
If you find a tick after a hike, remove it immediately with fine-tipped tweezers by pulling straight up. If you suspect it has been attached for more than 24 hours or if the mouthparts break off in the skin, walk into our clinic. We can safely remove it and evaluate you for preventative treatment.
2. Watch for the "Bullseye" Rash 🎯
Not all tick bites cause a rash but a circular, expanding red rash that looks like a target is a classic sign of a tick-borne illness. If you spot this or develop sudden flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches, headache) after a bite, visit us immediately.
3. Check the Secondary Infection Signs 🛑
Scratching an insect or tick bite can introduce bacteria. If a bite area becomes increasingly red, swollen, hot to the touch or starts leaking pus, let our team treat it before it turns into a serious skin infection.
Don't let a tiny trail pest sideline your summer. Our clinic requires zero appointments and is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 AM to 5:45 PM to keep your family healthy and active.
Walk in anytime! 🏥
