Your Body Almanac

Mississippi

Long, humid summers, southern ticks and a strong Gulf sun.

Mississippi's climate drives its risks: months of humid heat, ticks that are active much of the year, and strong sun.

01

Humid heat

High humidity keeps sweat from cooling you, and the heat index runs far above the air temperature from late spring into fall. Outdoor workers, older adults and people without air conditioning are most at risk.

SourcesHeat Index (National Weather Service)About Heat and Your Health (CDC)
Stay safe in the heatAs neededOn hot days, drink water often, take breaks in the shade and plan hard work for the cooler parts of the day. Rehydrate when you sweatAs neededDrink regularly during hot work or long workouts, and add electrolytes when you sweat for more than two hours. Drink water through the dayDailyKeep a water bottle within reach and sip through the day instead of waiting until you are thirsty.
02

Southern ticks

Lone star ticks spread ehrlichiosis and are linked to alpha-gal syndrome, a red-meat allergy. Gulf Coast ticks, found mainly in the Southeast, carry a form of spotted fever.

SourcesWhere Ticks Live (CDC)About Alpha-gal Syndrome (CDC)
Check for ticksAs neededAfter time in grass or woods, check your whole body, shower within two hours and dry your clothes on high heat. Use insect repellentAs neededUse an EPA-registered repellent on exposed skin when mosquitoes or ticks are around.
03

Strong sun

UV runs high for much of the year this far south, and reflects off water. Skin damage adds up over years outdoors.

SourcesSun Safety Monthly Average UV Index (US EPA)Sun Safety (CDC)
Wear sunscreen every dayDailyPut broad-spectrum SPF 30+ on exposed skin each morning and reapply every two hours outdoors. Wear sun-protective clothingAs neededCover up with a wide-brimmed hat, UV-blocking sunglasses and tightly woven long sleeves when you are out in the sun. Check your skin for changesAs neededLook over your whole body on a regular schedule for new spots or moles that change, itch or bleed.