Illinois health officials warn of tick-borne illnesses

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (KBSI) — As warmer weather approaches, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is urging residents to take precautions against tick-borne illnesses during National Lyme Disease Awareness Month.

“Lyme disease is a serious bacterial infection transmitted through the bite of infected ticks,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “It’s essential that residents learn how to protect themselves and their loved ones from tick-borne illnesses.”

IDPH recommends checking for ticks after spending time outdoors, especially in wooded or high-grassy areas. Removing ticks within 24 hours reduces the risk of disease transmission.

In addition to Lyme disease, other serious tick-borne diseases include Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Tularemia, Ehrlichiosis, and Babesiosis.

To avoid tick-borne illnesses, IDPH suggests:

• Walking in the center of trails
• Avoiding wooded, bushy areas with high grass and leaf litter
• Wearing light-colored clothing
• Tucking long pants into socks and boots
• Applying EPA-registered insect repellent
• Conducting full-body tick checks every two to three hours

For more information on tick removal, symptom awareness, and prevention, visit the IDPH website.