" To paraphrase, I would say: "I need to eliminate that tick that's been biting me all day long." I would not say: "I have to be free from that tick." And that's why I'd use "rid of" with a cold, as opposed to "free" (it does not matter irrespective https://www.tumblr.com/homeinsulationgrant/759429022693343232/top-qualities-of-top-agencies-while-applying-for