Tick populations are on the rise during what officials describe as a particularly active tick season in Illinois, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that experts are seeing an increase in cases of tickborne illnesses in the area.
Combine that with news stories about tick bites possibly being behind the death of a 2-year-old from (rare) Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and a viral video of a 3-year-old struggling to stand, and many parents are particularly concerned about keeping their kids safe as they head outside this summer.
Here are some basic facts about ticks, tips on avoiding tick bites, and what to do if you suspect you or a family member may have been bitten.
