SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) -- The state's public health director says it's time to take precautions against tick bites which can bring a risk of illness.

The Illinois Department of Health says May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month.

Lyme Disease is caused by a bacteria carried by small ticks, which can lead to arthritis or heart and nervous system problems.

Officials say between now and June is the peak time for tick bites. That's because ticks are most active when the temperature is over 40 degrees.

Ticks live in and around wooded areas, brush and tall grass.

Health officials do have some suggestions. Those include wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants and using effective tick repellants.

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