According to a report by Local 3 News in Chattanooga, experts are warning of a significant surge in tick populations across the Tennessee Valley this year following a mild winter, noting that the risk extends beyond hiking trails into residential yards.

Local physician Dr. Allen Coffman emphasizes that even those who take precautions like wearing long pants and using repellents may still find embedded ticks, making frequent checks of the waistline, armpits, and behind the ears essential.

The danger is heightened by the prevalence of illnesses like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, the flu-like Ehrlichiosis, and Alpha-gal syndrome—a life-altering red meat allergy caused by lone star ticks.

To stay safe, residents are encouraged to treat pets, wear light-colored clothing to spot ticks easily, and tuck pants into socks while outdoors.