An invasive disease-carrying tick species has been discovered in Connecticut.

The Gulf Coast Tick was found on July 3 throughout Fairfield County by researchers working with Western Connecticut State University.

Officials say it's the first report of the tick species in the northeastern U.S.

The tick can transmit a form of spotted fever to humans.

Symptoms include headache, fever, and a rash near the bite.

Lyme disease is named after a species of tick discovered in Lyme, Connecticut.