A 74-year-old man from the St. Louis area died this week of the tick-borne disease ehrlichiosis, state health officials announced today.

The case was one of nine reported cases of diseases transmitted by ticks in the state this season.

Ehrlichiosis is similar to Rocky Mountain spotted fever and causes flu-like symptoms that can in rare cases lead to kidney failure and breathing complications.

The man had discovered a tick on his body after a fishing trip in northeast Missouri. He had underlying health problems that may have been a factor in his death, according to health officials.

Last season brought a record number of tick-borne diseases (668) to the state. Health officials again are urging people to wear insect repellent and check their skin for ticks after being outdoors.

For more information, visit www.dhss.mo.gov/TicksCarryDisease/