Illinois investigates its first Powassan virus case, urging prevention amid rising tick-borne disease concerns.

Illinois is investigating its first confirmed case of Powassan virus, a rare and potentially severe tick-borne illness, in a resident whose exposure location is under review. The Illinois Department of Public Health is conducting tick surveillance in areas the individual visited and urges residents to take preventive steps, including wearing protective clothing, using EPA-registered repellents, checking for ticks after outdoor activities, and removing them within 24 hours to reduce disease risk. Research shows regional variations in tick populations, with deer ticks in northern and central Illinois, lone star ticks in the south, and dog ticks widespread in central and southern areas, each capable of transmitting diseases like Lyme, ehrlichiosis, and Alpha-gal syndrome. While overall tick-borne disease cases remain relatively low, rising numbers of Alpha-gal syndrome diagnoses and increased Lyme disease rates highlight growing public health concerns. Experts stress that early detection and prevention are key, as transmission typically requires prolonged tick attachment.