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The Columbia County Department of Health is urging residents to take the proper precautions to protect themselves against ticks.
The reminder comes as officials are waiting for confirmation of a possible case of the Powassan virus. The rare tick-borne illness can cause multiple symptoms such as fever, dry cough, chest pain and even inflammation of the brain. Experts suggest that people take steps such as using insect repellent and checking their clothes and exposed skin for ticks while they're outdoors so they can stay safe.