" To Paraphrase, I might say: "I want to get rid of that tick that is been biting me all day." I wouldn't say: "I have to be free from that tick." And that's why I'd personally use "rid of" with a cold, rather then "free" (it does not matter https://energygrantsuk.health.blog/2024/09/13/what-you-must-know-before-applying-for-eco-grants/