Tick Season Has Started In Illinois, And It’s Gonna Be A Long One

Wait...didn't we just wrap up tick season just a couple of months back?

It's actually been more than two months because "tick season" in Illinois ended at the tail end of November of last year, but none of that matters now because we're right back into it once again. If you’ve been waiting for warmer weather to get back outside in Illinois, you’re not alone, but neither are ticks.

Health experts say tick season is already underway across the state, and it’s shaping up to be a long one. In Illinois, tick activity typically stretches from early spring through November, with two especially active periods: April through June and again from September into late fall.

Ticks become active as soon as temperatures are consistently above freezing, according to public health officials. That means Illinois residents should begin taking precautions now, and continue that all the way through the fall.

Illinois Has More Than One Species Of Tick, And Some Of Them Carry More Risk Than The Others Do

Here's what kind of ticks we have here in Illinois, and the dangers they carry with them:

The blacklegged tick, also known as the deer tick, is the biggest concern. It’s responsible for spreading Lyme disease, and its small size makes it especially easy to miss after time outdoors.

The American dog tick is more visible and commonly found in grassy areas. While it doesn’t transmit Lyme disease, it can carry other illnesses, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

The lone star tick, which has been expanding its range into Illinois, is gaining attention for a different reason. Bites from this tick have been linked to alpha-gal syndrome, a condition that can cause an allergic reaction to red meat, sometimes months after the bite.

Finally, the brown dog tick primarily affects pets but can become a problem indoors if it establishes itself in a home.

Experts stress that prevention is key. Wearing long clothing, using EPA-approved insect repellents, and doing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors can significantly reduce your risk.

Tick season isn’t coming, it’s already here. And with months of activity ahead, now is the time to start paying attention.