URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – The Urbana Park District has issued a public warning to residents and park-goers after receiving reports of pets picking up ticks during visits to local parks. The district has responded by installing additional signage to raise awareness and help prevent potential tick-borne illnesses.
Officials are encouraging all visitors to stay on marked trails and avoid venturing into tall grass and brushy areas, where ticks are most commonly found. This advisory comes as tick activity peaks during the summer months in Illinois.
“People should be especially vigilant this time of year,” said a park district spokesperson. “Check yourself and your pets thoroughly after spending time outdoors.”
According to the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District, ticks in Illinois can transmit several diseases, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Common hiding spots for ticks include ears, underarms, behind knees, and on pets — behind ears, under the collar, and between toes.
The park district recommends:
- Checking for ticks immediately after outdoor activity
- Showering soon after returning home
- Watching pets for unusual symptoms such as fatigue or loss of appetite
- Promptly and properly removing ticks using fine-tipped tweezers
More detailed tick prevention and removal guidance can be found on the Champaign-Urbana Public Health District’s website. Residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to call the Planning and Operations Department at (217) 344-9583