The New York Department of Health has issued a reminder about the importance of preventing tick-borne illnesses after another confirmed case of the Powassan virus in Dutchess County. 

Powassan is a rare viral disease with no vaccination.

This summer, there were three reported Powassan cases in Saratoga County, one resulting in death.

Over 20 infected ticks were found at the Saratoga Spa State Park, Stillwater and at a private home. 

Bryon Backenson, a State Department of Health researcher, says residents should be diligent about checking themselves for ticks.

"The best thing you can do is use a pair of fine point tweezers, get as close to the skin as possible, and basically pull straight up -- and that tick will pop right off. And the earlier you can get that tick off, the less likely it is that you will wind up getting a disease that tick may be carrying," Backenson said.

Experts say the ticks will remain active until temperatures drop below 40 or 45 degrees.