First American Case of New Deer Tick Disease Confirmed in New Jersey

Posted on January 26, 2013 with No Comments

Just a few days ago on our pest control blog we reported that U.S. scientists discovered a new disease spread by deer ticks. The unnamed illness has viral-like similarities to lyme disease, another tick-borne disease common across the county.  In the United States, deer ticks are most commonly found in the Northeastern region, from Virginia to Maine, in the north central states, mostly Wisconsin and Minnesota, and on the west coast, primarily in northern California, according to the Yale School of Public Health.

Joseph Gugliotta, MD, an Infectious Disease Specialist at Hunterdon Medical Center, was published in the New England Journal of Medicine for his work in identifying and successfully treating the first North American case of a new disease called Borrelia miyamotoi infection. Dr. Gugliotta treated Kingwood Township resident Anne Felix’s Borrelia miyamotoi, which is transmitted by a deer tick that can infect people with Lyme disease.

CBS New York is reporting that a woman from New Jersey is lucky to be alive after being bit by a tick.  The 81 year old woman, Anna Felix, of Kingwood Township, New Jersey, is grateful to be alive!

Watch this video from CBS News showing the breakthrough discovery stating that the disease was caused by a bacteria spread by ticks.

Ms. Felix worst fear was that her lymphoma had returned or she might have dementia when she started getting weak and confused and lost 30 pounds.  “I remember I couldn’t eat too well. And I started needing help to walk,” Felix told CBS 2’s Hazel Sanchez on Friday.

“Initial tests were inconclusive, and although she showed symptoms of Lyme disease, Felix tested negative. Lab technicians at Hunterdon Medical Center made a breakthrough discovery when they examined her spinal fluid and found an unusual strain of bacteria they had never seen before.  “It was really spectacular. We knew we were on to something really big and that she would be treated and cured,” lab tech Amy Kurynow said.”

Dr. Joseph Gugliotta confirmed it was the bacteria borrelia miyamotoi, a new disease transmitted by the same deer tick that causes Lyme Disease.  Felix is the first American case of this new tick-transmitted disease.

“Once I verified the organisms were there in the second spinal tap she was treated with a high dose of antibiotics and by five to seven days we were seeing improvement already,” Dr. Gugliotta said.

List of Diseases Spread by Deer Tick Grows, Including Malaria-Like Problems and Potentially Fatal Encephalitis

Posted on January 7, 2013 with No Comments

An emerging tick-borne disease that causes symptoms similar to malaria is expanding its range in areas of the northeast where it has become well-established, according to new research presented November 12 at the annual meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH).

Researchers from the Yale School of Public Health reported that from 2000 to 2008, cases of babesiosis — which invades red blood cells and is carried by the same tick that causes Lyme disease — expanded from 30 to 85 towns in Connecticut. Cases of the disease in Connecticut, where it was first reported in 1991, also have risen from 3 to about 100 cases per year.

The findings on babesiosis presented at the ASTMH annual meeting were accompanied by discussions of a range of other investigations into newly emerging tick-borne diseases, which include afflictions that can cause fatal encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain.

“Today’s findings underscore the shifting landscape of tick-borne diseases, whose rapid emergence can challenge the best efforts of science and medicine to diagnose, treat, and prevent their occurrence,” said Peter Krause, MD, a researcher at the Yale School of Public Health in New Haven, Connecticut.

ASTMH President James W. Kazura, MD, FASTMH, said: “This is a real-time illustration of the inter-connectedness of human and animal health that many people don’t often think about. Ticks are a major carrier for many human diseases and efforts like this offer timely information that is of regional and clinical importance.”

Lyme disease — with 20,000-30,000 cases reported each year in the United States — is still the best known example of a recently emerged tick-borne disease. But research points to a growing number of pathogens carried by the deer tick, all of which are expanding their range.

Malaria look-alike in United States

A prime example is babesiosis, which is caused by the parasite Babesia microti. It has similarities to malaria in that it invades and destroys red blood cells. In the United States, this parasite is the most common pathogen transmitted through blood transfusions.

Acute cases are commonly associated with fever, fatigue, chills, headache, sweats and muscle pain. Infection can be asymptomatic or severe, causing death in about 6 to 9 percent of patients hospitalized with the illness. If transmitted through a blood transfusion, the mortality rate is about 20 percent. However, if properly diagnosed, babesiosis generally is promptly cured with antibiotics.

Story Source:  Science Daily

List of Diseases Spread by Deer Tick Grows in Connecticut

Posted on November 12, 2012 with No Comments

An emerging tick-borne disease that causes symptoms similar to malaria is expanding its range in areas of the northeast where it has become well-established, according to new research presented November 12 at the annual meeting of the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH).

Researchers from the Yale School of Public Health reported that from 2000 to 2008, cases of babesiosis — which invades red blood cells and is carried by the same tick that causes Lyme disease — expanded from 30 to 85 towns in Connecticut. Cases of the disease in Connecticut, where it was first reported in 1991, also have risen from 3 to about 100 cases per year.

For more information about tick-borne disease and pest control for ticks in Connecticut contact J.P. McHale Pest Management here or read more here.  You can also view the entire article on our facebook page.

Pests and Rodents are Vectors of Disease

Posted on September 19, 2012 with 1 Comment

Fall is among us and that means that means that pests and rodents are going to start seeking shelter indoors.

Rodents and pests will seek entry ways into homes during the winter months in search of food, water and shelter.  Cracks in foundations, open chimney’s are just two vulnerable entry points for rodents.

There have been recent stories in the news about bubonic plaque, hantavirus and lyme disease.  All of which are alarming – but not a cause to panic – amongst pest management professionals.

Protecting and preparing your residence is key to fending off rodents. At JP McHale Pest Management we recommend our Home Pest Prevention Program (HPP). Every home occasionally has unwanted visitors. As seasons change, insects and rodents take shelter in and around your home. Protect yourself with a comprehensive pest control program that not only treats existing problems, but also prevents them from coming back with regularly scheduled visits. We deliver complimentary service calls, at no additional charge, in case you need us between regular scheduled visits

Please contact us today if you are interested in our Home Pest Prevention Program.

New York State Mosquito News from the EPA

Posted on September 13, 2012 with No Comments

The Environmental Protection Agency(EPA) has reorganized its resources on controlling mosquitoes and preventing bites, the agency announced.

Though the summer is winding down, the EPA advises the public that mosquitoes can still present a serious risk to public health. The new resource directory includes prevention methods such as removal of standing water, tips to prevent bites and information about pesticides commonly used in mosquito control programs.

“The agency understands that Americans are concerns about recent increases in mosquito-borne diseases across the United States, especially the West Nile virus, and is committed to helping people understand how they can be more vigilant in protecting themselves from risks posed by mosquitoes,” the EPA said in a statement.

The directory can be accessed here.

Response to Baltimore Sun Article About Lyme Disease Study By the Professional Pest Management Alliance

Posted on May 31, 2012 with No Comments

Response to Baltimore Sun Article About Lyme Disease Study

 Using Bifenthrin in ZIP Codes With High Incidence of Lyme Disease
Overview and Talking Points
Prepared for the National Pest Management Association

By the Professional Pest Management Alliance

May 29, 2012

Background

On May 29, 2012, The Baltimore Sun newspaper published a front-page article about a study underwritten by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that is taking place in Baltimore, Carroll, Harford and Howard counties in Maryland. The study involves spraying the yards of residents in these areas with bifenthrin to determine how well this product will protect them from Lyme disease.

All the residents volunteered to participate in the study after receiving a flyer asking for their participation and responses to a survey about ticks. The flyers were sent to residents in ZIP codes with a high incidence of Lyme disease in the past. Half the participants’ yards will receive applications of bifenthrin while others will be sprayed with water in order to see how well the bifenthrin performs. The CDC conducted this study last year and 440 families participated, according to the article. The article also states that similar studies are taking place in Connecticut and New York.

Here is a link to the study notice as well as Q&A regarding bifenthrin on the CDC website: http://www.cdc.gov/ticknet/ltdps/

Environmental activists and some health experts were quoted in the article expressing concern about the safety of bifenthrin. They claim that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified bifenthrin as a possible carcinogen and that it is being studied by the EPA for possible harm to reproductive and immune systems, among other things.

http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=EPA-HQ-OPP-2010-0384-0007

Statement

“The article published in the May 29, 2012, edition of The Baltimore Sun discusses the CDC study, ‘Using Bifenthrin in ZIP Codes With High Incidence of Lyme Disease,’ and draws attention to the fact that tick-borne illnesses are very serious and can negatively impact humans and animals in areas where ticks are found.  While we cannot specifically comment on the study itself, we understand the CDC’s concern about Lyme disease and agree that eliminating tick populations can go a long way in decreasing the risks posed to people and their pets. Tick control is necessary due to the fact that these pests are vectors of serious disease, including Lyme disease. Lyme disease, which according to the CDC is the most commonly reported vectorborne illness in the U.S., can be transmitted to humans by the blacklegged tick, also commonly known as the deer tick. Maryland residents are at high risk for tick encounters this year, as many health and pest experts have predicted this to be one of the most severe tick seasons in years.

The article also raises an issue regarding the safety of the pest control product, bifenthrin, when applied to yards for the purpose of tick control and elimination. Bifenthrin is a product that is very effective against ticks and according to its label instructions, can be applied in yards and wooded areas to protect people and pets against ticks.

All products used by licensed pest professionals are rigorously reviewed and approved for use by the Environmental Protection Agency. Pest management professionals are trained in the biology and control of pests such as ticks and are licensed and regulated by the states in which they operate.“

Talking Points

• Experts are predicting a large tick population this year due to several environmental factors and as such, there is a concern that we may also see an increase in human cases of tick-borne diseases.

• We can confidently say that the professional products used in the treatment of ticks, just like other pests are rigorously reviewed and registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Licensed pest professionals in Maryland, through the National Pest Management Association, work closely with the EPA to ensure that all products used in pest management practices are consistently reviewed, re-registered and provided with accurate and comprehensive labeling for use.

• If consumers are concerned by the issues raised in the Baltimore Sun article, we encourage them to contact the EPA and the CDC to discuss these concerns and to consult with a qualified and licensed pest professional to determine what preventative measures are available if they suspect their yards are harboring ticks and to discuss all treatment options.

• It is important to be aware of ways to prevent being bitten by a tick. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• When in an area where ticks are common, wear long sleeved shirts and pants, preferably light colored so ticks will be easy to detect.
  • Tuck pants into socks.
  • Use a tick repellent containing DEET.
• Upon returning indoors, inspect clothing and your entire body, including your head, for ticks. Don’t forget to check your family members who may have been out with you and/or your family pet as well.
• After spending time in a tick habitat, it’s a good idea to take a shower because it will afford you the opportunity to thoroughly inspect your entire body.
• Wash clothes immediately.
• Keep grass cut low, including around fence lines, sheds, trees, shrubs, swing sets and other difficult to cut locations and remove weeds, woodpiles and other debris from the yard.
• Inquire about lawn tick treatments, especially those that focus on the edges of the lawn where it interfaces with natural areas. This method has the greatest chance of preventing ticks from establishing themselves in your back yard
• Pet owners should speak to their veterinarians about preventative flea and tick treatments, as these can help deter pet pests and kill ticks on contact/upon being bitten.
• If a tick is found attached, it should be removed with a slow, steady pull so as not to break off the mouthparts and leave them in the skin. If possible, it’s best to use forceps or tweezers and grab on or just behind the mouthparts. If you must use fingers, the fingernails of the thumb and forefinger should be placed on or just behind the mouthparts. Once removed, wash hands and attachment site thoroughly with soap and water. Ticks should then be flushed down a toilet or wrapped tightly in tissue before disposing in a closed receptacle since they can be difficult to crush.

If you are contacted by a member of the media and would like to talk through an appropriate response or wish to have NPMA support your participation in the story, please contact Missy Henriksen at (703) 352-6762 or mhenriksen@pestworld.org.

New York Tick Pest Control – Westchester, Dutchess, Rockland

Posted on May 30, 2012 with No Comments

Pest Control to help keep your yard tick free this summer

Ticks and lyme disease are on the rise in New York.  Here are some more prevention tips to reduce the number of ticks in your yard:

• Keep your yard clean of debris such as leaf litter and grass clippings and keep flowerbeds dry.
• Keep grass mowed and trim bushes and shrubs, especially near paths and walkways.
• Minimize ground cover.
• Separate your lawn from any wooded areas with a barrier.
• Minimize anything that will attract tick infested wildlife, including bird feeders and bird baths.
• White-tailed deer are known to be a carry of ticks.  Deer enter suburban yards seeking food sources
• Have a New York Pest Control Company apply a pesticide to your property.

JP McHale can help protect your family and pets from diseases carrying ticks.  Ticks are very small insects that feed on the blood of warm-blooded animals, including dogs, cats, mice, deer, and, of course, people. A tick will latch onto the skin, dig in its feeding apparatus, and then bite. When the tick is full, it swells in size. Then it drops off the host, only to repeat the cycle again later.

Ticks Increasing in New York: Stay Vigilant and Check Yourself For Ticks On A Constant Basis

Posted on May 17, 2012 with No Comments

With the increase of ticks this year in New York, here’s insight from Matt Frye, a entomologist at JP McHale Pest Management, Inc.

Tick and mosquito problems today are the result of very complex ecological interactions. Ticks are parasites of “edge species”, such as deer and mice that live in the ecotone between field and forest. Habitat fragmentation, or the conversion of forest to residential or commercial space has created an abundance of “edge”. This is why we see extremely high deer populations. Because we live near these created edges at property borders, our risk of being exposed to ticks is very high. Another reason for high tick populations is the large rodent population of 2011. A recent report from the Cary Institute in Millbrook, NY shows how complex the interactions can be between plants, rodents, ticks and humans.

One of the best ways to avoid Lyme disease is a daily tick check. New evidence suggests that ticks have to be attached for 24 hours or more before they transmit the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Ticks should be removed with tweezers by pulling them out exactly the direction that they inserted into your skin. Ticks can be placed inside clear tape to immobilize them.

Homeowners can also help with mosquito reduction by eliminating standing water. Old tires, bird feeders, empty pots and other areas that accumulate water and promote the growth of algae are conducive to mosquitoes. In addition, local municipalities often survey for mosquitoes and implement control plans.

Home Invasion Culprit was Thousand’s of Stink Bugs

Posted on March 28, 2012 with No Comments

Doug Inkley, whose home was invaded by thousands of stink bugs last year, holds one on his finger.

Are You Prepared for Tick Season?

Posted on March 27, 2012 with No Comments

Warm weather  means that ticks will be out early and spring and summer are on track to be a horrific season for lyme disease.  Are you prepared?

The Wall Street Journal reports that The Center for Disease control (CDC ) is conducting the first study of its kind to determine whether spraying the yard for ticks can not only kill pests, but also reduce human disease.  “Paul Mead, chief of epidemiology and surveillance activity at CDC’s bacterial-illness branch, says preliminary results from about 1,500 households indicate that a spray reduced the tick population by 60%.”

The Wall Street Journal Online has an interactive display that you can click on to learn how to prepare your yard for tick season.  Some of the recommendations include:

Firewood piles and bird feeders should be kept away from your house.
Restrict the use of ground cover and plants that may attract deer.
Keep your grass mowed.
Keep your pets out of the woods.
Consider having targeted pesticides applied as a targeted treatment barrier.