Your Body Almanac

Tennessee

Spotted fever ticks, humid heat, and radon in Middle and East Tennessee.

Tennessee is one of a handful of states where most US spotted fever cases happen. Summers are hot and humid, and large parts of Middle and East Tennessee sit in EPA's highest radon zone.

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 Tennessee is one of them. Rocky Mountain spotted fever can be deadly if not treated early. Ticks live in woods, fields and yards, and on dogs.

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

Radon in Middle and East Tennessee

Radon is an invisible, odorless radioactive gas that seeps from soil and rock into homes and is the leading cause of lung cancer in people who don't smoke. EPA's map puts a broad band of Middle Tennessee and much of East Tennessee in Zone 1, its highest-risk category. Testing is the only way to know your home's level.

SourcesTennessee — 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.
03

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.

When to see a professional

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