Tick season is here, and Professor Brian Allan from the University of Illinois’ School of Integrative Biology shares concerns and tips for protecting yourself against these parasitic arachnids. According to Allan, ticks are most active during warmer months but can be present year-round if temperatures are above freezing.
While predicting tick abundance is challenging, Allan notes that reports of American Dog Ticks have increased this spring, suggesting a potentially abundant year for this species. However, the distribution of other tick species is expanding, with Blacklegged (deer) ticks moving south and Lone star ticks spreading north.
The most significant concern is the presence of two new tick species in Illinois: the Gulf Coast tick and the Asian Longhorned tick. The Gulf Coast tick transmits spotted fever rickettsiosis, which can cause illness in humans. The Asian Longhorned tick, native to Asia, has shown the ability to transmit a wide variety of diseases under laboratory conditions.
To protect yourself against ticks, Allan recommends three rules: wear long pants and sleeves, use permethrin-based repellents, and perform frequent tick checks. By taking these precautions, you can reduce your risk of being bitten by these blood-sucking arachnids.
For more information on tick surveillance in Illinois, visit the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Tick Surveillance Map, which provides updates on reported tick species and diseases.
Source: https://eu.sj-r.com/story/news/state/2025/05/28/ticks-in-illinois-what-to-know-about-species-prevention-and-more/83878910007