A rare tick illness has been found in Northern Illinois.
The Illinois Department of Public Health have found the first blacklegged tick in the state to test positive for bacteria that causes ehrlichiosis disease.
Anibiotics, like doxycyline, can be used to treat ehrlichiosis.
If left untreated, the illness can cause serious health complications, such as fever, nausea, and vomitting, said health officials.
IDPH reccomends the following to increase your chances at avoiding tickborne illnesses:
1.) Walk in the center of trails. Avoid wooded, bushy areas with high grass.
2.) Apply an EPA-registed insect repellent containing 20% DEET, picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus according to label directions.
3.) Conduct full-body tick checks on family members every two to three hours. Also check any pets, gear, or other items taken on outsings.
4.) Put your clothes in the dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill ticks.
5.) Shower within two hours after coming indoors.
If you find a blacklegged tick on you, seek medical attention to decide if you need an anibiotic to prevent disease, said health department officials.