It’s Late October In Illinois, Are Ticks Still Dangerous Now?

We've made it to late October in Northern Illinois, the leaves are falling, temperatures are dropping, and we're getting closer to putting away the lawn equipment for the year. So, can we finally stop worrying about ticks?

Unfortunately, not quite.

After a really tough year for tick-related illnesses in Illinois, you might be wondering when we can officially wave the all-clear flag. The answer depends on the weather, the type of tick, and where you're spending your time outdoors.

brown spider on white braille paper

Ticks Aren't Concentrated In Just One Area Of Illinois

According to the University of Illinois Extension, tick-borne diseases have been reported in every Illinois county and every month of the year. That doesn't mean the danger is equally high year-round, but it does mean ticks don't necessarily disappear when summer ends.

Here in Northern Illinois, we're entering an important period for the blacklegged tick, commonly known as the deer tick.

These are the ticks capable of transmitting Lyme disease, among other illnesses. While their tiny, immature nymphs are most active in spring and early summer, adult blacklegged ticks become active again in the fall. Researchers identify late September through early December as a second peak period for these ticks in Illinois.

In other words, October is absolutely not the time to let your guard down.

A tick rests on bright yellow building blocks

Temperature Changes May Slow Some Ticks Down A Little Bit

Cooler weather can reduce tick activity, but adult ticks may still seek a host whenever temperatures climb above freezing. Even during winter, a relatively warm day can bring them out.

So, what should you do?

Keep checking yourself, your kids and your pets after spending time in wooded areas, tall grass, brush or piles of fallen leaves. Use an EPA-registered insect repellent, wear appropriate clothing, and check for ticks promptly after coming inside.

If you develop symptoms such as fever, headache, chills or muscle aches after a possible tick exposure, contact your healthcare provider and mention the exposure.

The bottom line is that we may be winding down outdoor activities for the season, but ticks haven't necessarily called it quits. In Northern Illinois, it's still worth taking precautions well into November and beyond.