As global temperatures continue to rise, the number of insects, including ticks, is also increasing.

For instance, an American study revealed that tick-borne diseases have tripled in the past 15 years.

Despite repeated warnings from experts to wear long pants and sleeves, following this advice during the sweltering summer months isn’t always practical. And staying indoors isn’t much of an alternative—after a harsh winter, warm, sunny days naturally draw us outside.

However, caution remains essential.

No one should have to endure what five-year-old Mason McNair experienced. Sadly, his story is more common than many realize and could have had far graver consequences.

A Playful Day Turns Serious

Mason was playing outdoors with his grandparents, enjoying nature as most children do. Later, when his grandmother was bathing him, she noticed a tick embedded in his navel.

She removed it safely, but the area remained red and swollen. A visit to the doctor resulted in Mason being prescribed antibiotics. However, his condition soon deteriorated.

Mason developed a rash, fever, and stomach pains.

“At first, it just looked like a heat rash. We’d been outside all weekend, and it was very hot,” explained Danielle McNair, Mason’s mother.

But the rash spread quickly, covering large portions of his body. When the family consulted their doctor again, they were reassured that it was just a delayed reaction to the antibiotics.

“I wasn’t satisfied with the answer,” Danielle told USA Today. “I started doing my own research and called my sister, who’s a veterinarian.”