Bredesen hospitalized with flu symptoms

Gov. Phil Bredesen was in a hospital yesterday with flu-like symptoms that doctors said could have been caused by a tick bite, his spokeswoman said.

Bredesen, 62, fell ill Monday with a severe headache and high fever, spokeswoman Lydia Lenker said Tuesday afternoon.

He was admitted to Centennial Medical Center in Nashville where he was held Monday night, treated with antibiotics and was “feeling better,” Lenker said.

“We have spoken with him, his spirits are high, and he is looking forward to resuming his schedule as soon as possible,” Lenker said.

Physicians said they wanted him to stay overnight Tuesday for further observation and are hopeful he can be released today.

Lenker said doctors believe his symptoms are consistent with those caused by a tick bite, but the exact cause of the illness has not been determined. It could also just be a case of flu.

She said the governor enjoys outdoor activities like fishing, and has had several outdoor events in recent weeks as he campaigns for re-election.

Bredesen’s staff canceled three public events scheduled for Wednesday, including a speech to state lawmakers in town for the National Conference of State Legislatures.