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Disproportionate Reactions

It is interesting how some health topics cause panic and disproportionate reaction to the actual personal risk, while other health topics more applicable to a larger population (and a greater risk) get a minimal reaction. For example, the “hysteria” over MRSA (methicillin-resistant staphylococcus) by the general population was somewhat surprising to health professionals, (although the media contributed greatly to this reaction.) From observing patterns of illness in the district community, it would be beneficial if people would react a little more to the risk for Lyme Disease (and other tick-borne related diseases) and West Nile . A little “disproportionate reaction” on these topics might go a long way toward health!

You can expect that West Nile will surface again this spring, summer and fall. But there is no need to panic. You can take actions to reduce/prevent your chances of becoming infected by this virus. To decrease mosquito populations around your home, you should eliminate sources that collect water, as they become breeding grounds. And mosquitoes don't need much time or water to do breed. Examples of water breeding grounds include: Bird baths; boats, boat covers and pool covers; cans; jars; catch basins; cisterns; clogged roof gutters; drain outlets from air conditioners; dripping outdoor faucets; clogged drains; old tires; ornamental ponds without movement; over-irrigated lawns or fields; street gutters; wading pools or improperly-maintained swimming pools; rain barrels; saucers under potted plants; stumps; tree holes; watering cans; discarded tires; wheelbarrows or any other standing source of water. It is important to: Repair leaky pipes and outside dripping faucets; Change water in birdbaths frequently; Change water in pet's dish and chicken coops daily; Empty children's pool daily; Clean clogged roof gutters; Fill in holes in trees with sand or mortar; Stock ornamental ponds with mosquito-eating fish; and drain flower pot/plant dishes two times per week. For stagnant water that can't be drained there are products you can buy that help reduce mosquito populations. They are called mosquito dunks and are available in most hardware stores.

While you are busy eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, planting your flowers and enjoying the warm weather, don't forget to protect yourself from insect bites. The most important action you can take is to use an insect repellent. Not only will this protect you from mosquito bites, but it will also decrease the chances of tick bites. Caution should be used when applying repellents, especially on children. Read the directions for use on the product label. (They are there for a reason!) Apply to clothing rather than skin when possible. Do not use any of them on damaged skin. Do not apply to face area or hands. Wash off when you return indoors. Check yourself daily for ticks. They are very small and especially like to hide in the folds of the skin (behind knees, in armpits, in the groin area or behind ears.)

Rabies Over the last decade, rabies has been observed in several wildlife animals within our health district. While the number of rabid animals has been low, it is a concern for district residents. It important to understand that rabies is always fatal once the disease is established. But there is a window of time where you can get preventive treatment. For this reason, never ignore an animal bite, scratch or saliva contact by a wild animal or an unknown (to you) domestic animal, especially if it seems sick.

Since rabies is transmitted through saliva, you should always use gloves when examining a wet wound on your pet. Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water after any contact, even if you have worn gloves. If the animal is not severely injured, wait until the fur is dry to examine a wound. The rabies virus dies once dry. If your pet gets bitten or has contact with a wild animal, take your pet for a booster shot right away. If you get bitten, immediately wash and soak in soapy water for 10 minutes, then promptly seek medical attention from your doctor. Don't touch dead animal carcasses with your bare hands. If your animal has tangled with another animal and you have the carcass, you should call your local animal control officer so that the dead animal can be tested for rabies. Teach your children to stay away from the wild animals (even cute baby ones) and from domestic animals they don't know well. Wildlife animals do not make good pets. It is also very critical to maintain a barrier between you and wildlife. This can be accomplished by vaccinating your cats and dogs (required by law.) Be sure to keep their booster shots up to date.

For written information on Lyme, West Nile and rabies, district residents can call QVHD, 248-4528 or request via email, info@qvhd.org

Quinnipiack Valley Health District
1151 Hartford Turnpike
North Haven, CT 06473

Phone. (203) 248-4528
Fax. (203) 248-6671
E-Mail. info@qvhd.org