" To paraphrase, I'd say: "I want to get rid of that tick which is been biting me all day long." I wouldn't say: "I have to be free from that tick." And that is why I would use "rid of" with a cold, instead of "free" (irrespective of whether https://ecograntsuk.blogspot.com/2024/08/how-can-pensioners-be-benefited-from.html