ILLINOIS — As temperatures rise across the state, public health experts are sounding alarms about a growing tick threat in both urban and rural parts of Illinois — including the greater Chicago region.
According to researchers from the University of Illinois and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), tick populations have surged this year due to a mild winter and accelerated climate warming. The uptick is already triggering alerts on social media from agencies like the Cook County Forest Preserve District, warning residents to take extra precautions outdoors.
Why Tick Warnings Are On The Rise
Experts say Illinois is home to at least four “vector” tick species, each capable of carrying multiple diseases. These include:
- Black-legged (Deer) Ticks
- Lone Star Ticks
- American Dog Ticks
- Gulf Coast Ticks
Dr. Becky Smith, a pathobiology professor at the University of Illinois, explained the concern in an interview with CBS News Chicago:
“Some of these viruses we can’t even treat. We are really concerned about human health.”
Tick-borne illnesses range from Lyme disease to more dangerous infections. Though Pfizer’s TicoVac vaccine exists, Dr. Victoria Weston of Northwestern Medicine clarified it’s meant for tick-borne encephalitis — not a common U.S. illness.
Monitoring Tools: The Tick App & State Surveillance
To help track the issue, Illinois residents are encouraged to use The Tick App, where sightings can be reported and identified by experts. Another tool, the Ticks of Illinois Project on iNaturalist, allows users to upload photos and GPS locations of ticks encountered.
The IDPH also maintains an interactive surveillance map showing where ticks have been found and whether they carry any pathogens:
Illinois Tick Surveillance Map – IDPH
County-Level Response and Findings
In Will County, the Environmental Health Division performs six “tick drags” annually through a grant-funded program. Ticks collected are submitted to the state’s public health labs for pathogen testing. In 2024 alone, 47 ticks were tested — a number expected to increase in 2025.
How To Protect Yourself From Ticks
Doctors and forest preserve visitors shared prevention tips:
- Use DEET-based bug sprays or wipes
- Wear long pants and long sleeves
- Tuck pants into socks when hiking
- Do full body checks after outdoor activity
If you find a tick:
- Remove gently with fine-tipped tweezers near the mouth
- Avoid squeezing or twisting
- Flush it down the toilet
Have you noticed more ticks in your area this season? How do you protect yourself or your pets when outdoors? Share your tips or concerns in the comments.
Stay with ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com for real updates on health advisories, local safety tips, and seasonal alerts across Illinois.
