The state Department of Health has warned people of ticks and the dangerous illness they can cause.
"Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is one of two tick-borne illnesses found in Tennessee, the other being Ehrlichiosis, but Spotted Fever is certainly a disease that can cause serious illness and death," officials said.
While a tick bite for many people isn't a big deal, it can also be deadly.
In 2016, health officials saw 580 cases of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in Tennessee, and there have already been several dozen cases reported already this year.
So how can you fight the bite?
- Ticks wait in tall grass and bushes; so keep your grass and plants trimmed around your home.
- If you know you're going to be out in tall grass, for example, if you're hiking, wear long sleeves and long pants.
- You can also get ticks from your pets; so give your dog or cat a once-over after being outside.
