SOUTH BEND — A tick bite may be to blame for a toddler’s death here in the Hoosier state.

She died Sunday and her family suspects she may have been infected with Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, a rare illness usually transmitted by a tick bite.

The girl’s family asked a friend to speak on their behalf to warn others about the illness that suddenly took their daughter.

“Strep throat is what she initially tested positive for. Then she goes home and gets a nearly 104 degree fever. And they just couldn’t break it. They’re wanting to raise awareness for others, so this doesn’t happen to them,” says Monica Kirby, a family friend.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is on the rise in Indiana.

There were 30 cases in 2015, and 40 last year.

Experts say to use a bug spray containing 20%-30% “DEET.”

If you get a rash or fever after being around ticks, you should see a doctor and get checked out.

Source: WNDU