" Basically, I'd say: "I want to get rid of that tick that's been biting me all day long." I wouldn't say: "I have to be free from that tick." And that is why I might use "rid of" with a cold, as opposed to "free" (it does not matter https://ecograntscheme.health.blog/2024/08/21/how-to-apply-for-solar-panel-grants-scotland/