Experts are warning of an increased risk of tick-borne illnesses this year, as a boom in acorn production has led to a rise in mouse populations, expanding tick habitats. According to researchers at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, while ticks aren’t born with diseases, they pick up bacteria from animals like mice, increasing the risk of Lyme disease and other illnesses. Now, all Connecticut residents are advised to check for ticks after outdoor activities, wear protective clothing, and use tick repellent.