Experts Warn of Allergy, Tick Surge as Winter Illnesses Decline

Memorial Health doctor advises managing allergies early and watching for ticks as weather warms in Central Illinois

Apr. 5, 2026 at 11:25am

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As the winter chill fades in Central Illinois, medical experts are warning residents to be prepared for a new set of health challenges. While cases of flu, COVID-19, and RSV are declining, the transition to spring is triggering significant allergy symptoms and an early surge in tick activity in the region.

Why it matters

The change in seasons brings both relief from winter illnesses and the onset of new springtime health concerns. Residents need to be aware of the proper steps to manage allergies and protect against tick-borne illnesses to stay healthy as they spend more time outdoors.

The details

Dr. Kate Viotto, an urgent care physician at Memorial Health, advises starting with over-the-counter antihistamines or nasal sprays to manage allergy symptoms before seeking antibiotics for what may be mistaken as a sinus infection. She also warns that ticks are already active in the region's tall grasses and wooded areas due to unseasonably warm weather, and recommends using tweezers to properly remove ticks and considering a preventative dose of antibiotics if a tick has been attached for 48-72 hours.

  • As the winter chill fades, Central Illinois residents are eager to spend more time outdoors.
  • Memorial Health is continuing to see cases of Flu A, Flu B, COVID-19, and RSV, though the numbers are steadily declining.

The players

Dr. Kate Viotto

An urgent care physician at Memorial Health who provided expert advice on managing seasonal health changes.

Will Stevenson

The host of WTAX's Morning Newswatch, who interviewed Dr. Viotto about the current health trends in the community.

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What they’re saying

“If you come in and you haven't tried anything and it's only been three days, there's not a whole lot more we're going to offer you at that point.”

— Dr. Kate Viotto, Urgent Care Physician, Memorial Health

What’s next

As families head back outside for sports and yard work, Dr. Viotto reminds the public to be aware of the distinction between Urgent Care and the Emergency Room for their healthcare needs.

The takeaway

The transition from winter to spring in Central Illinois brings both relief from seasonal illnesses and the onset of new health challenges like allergies and tick-borne diseases. Residents need to be proactive in managing these springtime concerns to stay healthy while enjoying the outdoors.