Paralysis in humans caused by the American dog tick can be remedied by which action?

• A. Applying heat to the bite
• B. Removing the tick
• C. Taking antibiotics immediately
• D. Applying antiseptic cream

Answer: (B)

Paralysis from the American dog tick happens because a neurotoxin in the tick’s saliva is injected into the person while the tick is feeding. Removing the tick promptly stops any further toxin delivery, so the nervous system isn’t exposed to more of the toxin. Once the tick is out, recovery usually begins within 24–48 hours as the toxin clears from the body, and symptoms resolve over a few days. The other options don’t address the toxin: heat doesn’t neutralize it, antiseptic cream doesn’t reverse it, and antibiotics won’t help since this isn’t caused by a bacterial infection.