A disturbing video showing a man with numerous dark, round objects attached to his scalp has raised questions about whether it shows a genuine tick infestation. Similar viral clips have previously been debunked by doctors, with some creators using beans, seeds, or other objects attached to the skin to imitate parasites. However, real ticks can attach to the scalp, hide beneath hair, and sometimes go unnoticed for hours or days.

How dangerous is a real tick bite? Ticks can transmit infections, including Lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis, and other illnesses, depending on the tick species and region. A bite does not automatically mean someone will become sick. For Lyme disease, transmission usually requires prolonged attachment, often around 36–48 hours, but other tick-borne infections can spread more quickly. Warning signs include an expanding red rash, fever, chills, headache, unusual tiredness, muscle pain, and joint aches.

How should a tick be removed? The CDC recommends using clean, fine-tipped tweezers. Grip the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward slowly with steady pressure. Do not twist, squeeze, burn, or cover it with petroleum jelly or nail polish. Clean the bite area and your hands afterward. If the tick’s mouthparts remain and cannot be removed easily, leave them alone and allow the skin to heal. Check the rest of the body carefully, especially the scalp, behind the ears, neck, armpits, and other hidden areas.

When should you see a doctor? Seek medical advice if you develop a rash, fever, severe headache, muscle or joint pain, or other unusual symptoms in the weeks after a bite. A doctor may assess the tick species, how long it was attached, and where the bite occurred. Preventive antibiotics are sometimes considered for specific high-risk Lyme disease bites, but they are not necessary after every tick bite. The important message is simple: remove attached ticks promptly, monitor for symptoms, and never assume a shocking social-media video is genuine medical evidence.