ILLINOIS (WCIA) — A new law in Illinois will help keep residents informed — and safe — amid the rise of tick-borne illness.

House Bill 1754, known as the Tracking Infectious Cases Knowledgeably (TICK) Act, addresses alpha-gal syndrome (AGS). AGS is a significant allergic reaction to red meat, often triggered by the bite of the lone star tick.

The Department of Public Health is mandated to publish educational resources about AGS on its website. Additionally, it’s required to initiate a public awareness campaign targeting community members, local health departments, and healthcare providers. This campaign should include details about the symptoms and indicators of AGS, as well as guidance on when to conduct diagnostic testing.

Illinois has been identified as a state with one of the highest AGS rates in the country, but AGS is a growing threat nationwide, the CDC said.

Darby Hills, one of the sponsors for the bill, said the new law also requires the IDPH to create formal tracking and reporting procedures for AGS.

“This bill is about giving power to patients and ensuring our healthcare system is adequately equipped to address genuine health concerns,” Hills stated in a press release. “No one should have to struggle to find answers about their health.”

HB1754 was signed by Governor JB Pritzker Aug. 1 and took effect immediately. You can read more about the new law here.