Your Body Almanac

North Carolina

Humid summers, spotted fever ticks, and radon in the mountains.

North Carolina is one of a handful of states where most US spotted fever cases happen. Summers are hot and humid, which makes cooling off harder, and the western mountain counties have high predicted radon.

01

Ticks and spotted fever

More than three-quarters of US spotted fever rickettsiosis cases, including Rocky Mountain spotted fever, come from seven states, and North Carolina is one of them. Rocky Mountain spotted fever can be deadly if not treated early. Ticks are most active in the warm months, in woods, fields and yards.

SourcesUnderstanding Lyme and Other Tickborne Diseases — press kit (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.
02

Heat and humidity

Humid summer air slows the evaporation of sweat, which is how your body cools itself. That makes heat exhaustion and heat stroke more likely during outdoor work, exercise or a stretch without air conditioning, especially for older adults, young children and people with chronic illness.

SourcesHeat Safety Tips and Resources (National Weather Service)
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.
03

Radon in the western mountains

Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas that seeps from soil into homes and is the leading cause of lung cancer in people who don't smoke. EPA's map puts a group of western mountain counties in Zone 1, its highest-risk category, with most of the Piedmont and coast lower. Any home can still test high.

SourcesNorth Carolina — EPA Map of Radon Zones (EPA)Health risk of radon (EPA)
Test your home for radonAs neededRadon is invisible and odorless, so a simple test is the only way to know your level. Fix it at 4 pCi/L or higher.

When to see a professional

See a doctor quickly for fever, headache or rash in the two weeks after a tick bite or time outdoors. Rocky Mountain spotted fever is treatable, but delays can be dangerous. Call 911 for signs of heat stroke, such as confusion or fainting.