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After School and Home Alone – Do Your Children Know What to do in an Emergency?

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As summer winds down and focus on starting a new school year is right around the corner, many parents and children are getting ready- adjusting bedtimes, school lunches, transportation to and from school, and in some instances, starting a new school. Along with this, many children will spend some time at home alone after school.

About 3.5 million American children between the ages of 5 and 12 spend time at home alone after school. The average amount of time isn’t much—only about an hour a day, according to a U-M study presented in Chicago at the Society for Research on Adolescence biennial meeting. This number represents about 26 percent of American children who spend time after school alone, including time spent getting from one place to another (from school to home, for example) on their own.

Many children are ready to be home alone for an hour or so; however, a lot can depend on the maturity and ability level of the individual child.

In addition, each living situation is unique. Families living in apartments and condominiums have a different lifestyle and circumstances than their suburban and rural counterparts. Even geographic locations-where you live-playa large part in readying your child to stay home alone.

No matter what age your children are, or type of housing, there are still many situations in common that you can ready your child for, ensuring their safety while home.

Assess your children’s age and ability

Ability doesn’t necessarily come with age. A lot depends upon your child’s temperament, emotional maturity, and physical ability. For instance, children with special needs- whether physical, mental or emotional-should be factored into how much time they can be home alone. For example, a 9-year-old child on the autism spectrum may not be able to stay at home alone, whereas a 9- year-old without special needs could be left alone for a short period of time.

Geographical location

Do you live in an area that has extreme heat or cold spells? Do you live in a flood zone? Do you live in a hurricane or tornado-prone area? If so, does your child know what to do if these situations arise? What if you cannot get home because of an adverse weather event? Does your child know what to do?

Weather events are the most likely emergency- assess the most likely weather that your children could encounter, during a severe weather event, the power may go out, phones may not work, and heat and air conditioning may also not be working. In addition, if there is severe weather and you can’t get home to your children in the usual time frame, would your children know what to do? Knowing what to do is important if cell phone service goes down and there’s no way to communicate with each other.

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Home-alone emergency supplies

  • Basic first aid kit with basic supplies. Instruct your children how to use it in case of a minor emergency and when they should be calling 911. Laminate a card to keep in the first aid kit with these instructions.
  • Two flashlights with extra batteries
  • Bottled water
  • Prepackaged snacks
  • Portable radio with extra batteries with the emergency services bands
  • Portable cellphone battery chargers for each cell phone in the home. Test periodically and ensure they have a charge. Keep an additional cable with them for easy access.
  • Extra blankets and cold weather gear- and a small tent that can be set up in the bedroom or living room to contain heat in case you aren’t able to get home in a timely fashion

In case of evacuation

  • Evacuation should not be taken lightly. Most of the time, your child is safer in their home than in the great outdoors. Fires, power outages that affect heating, and even door-to-door evacuation orders are reasons your child needs to be prepared. Luckily, having to evacuate is not very likely. But it is always better to be prepared than to have regrets.
  • Put together a go-bag for each child in the home. Have the child put the bag on and ensure it isn’t too heavy and fits their frame. In the bag, place a laminated card with their name, address, medications, allergies, parents’ names, and phone numbers.
  • Two bottles of water for each go bag
  • Two or more prepackaged snacks-Lara bars are a great nutritious snack
  • Child’s medication for at least three days in clearly labeled bottles
  • A change of clothing-socks, pants, underwear, shirt, hat, gloves, and coat/sweater, depending on your climate.
  • Headlamps and extra batteries (headlamps free hands for tasks)
  • Reflective tape on the go bag, or purchase reflective tape and apply it to the backpack for visibility
  • Laminated map of the immediate area that you live in
  • Rechargeable hand warmers (with recharging cables) if you live in a cold weather area
  • Phone and portable recharger with cable

Put together a plan and practice.

  • Post on the refrigerator or a conspicuous place emergency phone numbers, relatives, trusted friends, and neighbors that your children can contact or go to in the event they need to leave home. Make the people on this list aware that your children will contact them in an emergency.
  • Pull out the first aid kit, go through all the items in the kit, and practice using them—role play. Purchase extra gauze and bandages for your children to use and practice with. As you go through scenarios, advise them to treat only minor cuts and injuries. Give examples of a minor injury and when they should call 911 or seek a trusted adult if phone service or power is out. Ideally, take your child to a local first aid course.
  • Have your children operate the portable radio. Have them remove and replace the batteries, and demonstrate they know how to find the emergency station(s) for information about local weather events.
  • Practice removing and replacing flashlight batteries. Make sure they know how to operate them.
  • Review and rehearse what your child would do if phone service were unavailable. For example, not to panic, and if able to safely make it to a trusted neighbor’s home.
  • If your child has misplaced or lost their key, have an alternate area to access a key, not just under a mat or a rock near the house. These would be obvious places for intruders to gain access to your home by finding that key.

Backup plans Kids should know where a key is hidden in case they’ve lost theirs, where to go in the neighborhood if they need help, and who to call if there’s a problem and they can’t be reached.

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

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Jase Founder Dr. Rowland Deploys with Aerial Recovery Group to Lahaina

When Dr. Shawn Rowland heard of the fire in Lahaina, and thousands were displaced, he wanted to offer his home on nearby Oahu for a displaced family or two to stay. He had no idea that he would be a part of the rescue and recovery efforts of a global outreach group called Aerial Recovery Group. Dr. Rowland had contacted their chief medical officer, Aaron Asay, physician assistant and friend that had lived on Maui, to offer his home for a displaced family or two.

Aaron had planned to be out of the country on assignment and would not be available to deploy to Lahaina. He asked his friend if he could be their physician for the group going to Lahaina, which Dr. Rowland readily accepted, and within two hours, a team had activated and organized. Once in Lahaina, the group connected with the Maui chief of police, who had locked down the city to prevent looters and onlookers that could prevent EMS and recovery workers from performing their jobs.

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Drone mapping and real-time satellite imagery helped put together a scenario of the extent of the fire and where people might be that needed help. At that point, there was no electricity, communications, or cell phone service. Initially, they treated acute injuries such as broken bones, smoke inhalation, and minor injuries to those who stayed behind in the town. Many people remained in the Lahaina area because they could not return if they left.

 That evening, Dr. Rowland heard about a man who could not leave his home because he had an infected foot. In the pitch dark, with no electricity, they made their way through the neighborhoods and up the dirt road, where they encountered many people sitting along the sides of the road who greeted them. “At first, I thought these were people that were housing others in their homes who had been displaced by the fire and were just sitting outside talking and visiting,” he said, “however, once we took care of the man with the infected foot and came back down, we were told that these were some of the people who had lost everything, including family members and all their possessions. I still get emotional talking about it.”

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As one of the first independent disaster response teams, Dr. Rowlands’ role quickly became that of resource allocation and coordination. Volunteers from the community – from physicians to nurses, medics, firefighters, and volunteers poured into the area and needed guidance on where to go and what to do. At the same time, relief was coming in from harbors, planes, and local groups. As Dr. Roland put it, “It was organized chaos.” They needed to quickly establish an infrastructure that could distribute and set up tents and supplies in each designated area and for medical teams to go door to door in the immediate area to see if anyone needed medical care.

Over the coming days, as supplies, tents, and distribution centers were set up, Dr. Rowland noticed that the most pressing need was for people’s medications. They needed their blood pressure medicines, diabetic supplies, antidepressants, and other drugs. It made him more aware of why Jase Daily (having a year’s supply of your prescription medication) existed. As founder and CEO of Jase Medical, he went over as a volunteer and came back, knowing that the mission of Jase Medical was to help people prepare in the event of any emergency or natural disaster.

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When asked what people could do to help or donate, Dr. Rowland said that, for now, all their physical needs were being met. It will take months, if not years, for these people to be back in a home environment.

He suggests, in addition to charities, such as the Red Cross, that gift cards through a reputable source that can get directly to the people would be the best way to help them with their personal, everyday needs. He also advises exercising caution when donating. Opportunistic scammers come out and take advantage of others in times like these.

He reports that there was plenty of food, water, clothing, diapers, and other essential supplies for the time being. There will be an ongoing need for a long time, however.

Dr. Rowland plans to return in the coming weeks, and we will keep you posted.

To learn more about the Aerial Response Recovery group and their missions, please visit their website.

“Aerial Recovery trains and deploys Humanitarian Special Operators to effectively respond to natural disasters and man-made disasters and combat sex trafficking. Made up of Veterans and First Responders, Aerial tackles some of the most difficult rescue and response missions globally.”

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Postscript

As of this writing,

  • Ninety-nine people were reported dead. The death toll is expected to climb by 10-20 more daily.
  • Names of those deceased and identified to start being released today (Tuesday, August 15)
  • According to Maui Police Chief John Pelletier, only 25 percent of Lahaina has been searched. They expect to complete the recovery process by the weekend.
  • According to Hawaii Electric, 80 percent of power has been restored.
  • Even though the power has mostly been restored, many families have no way to communicate with loved ones. Many people lost phones in the fire while fleeing for their lives, according to Governor Josh Green
  • This has been the largest loss of life to a fire in over a hundred years of US history.

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

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Are You Happy? 7 Tips to Happiness

“Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be.” – Abraham Lincoln

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“Happiness Happens Day” ,celebrated on August 8th of each year was founded by Pamela Gail Johnson. She started the Secret Society of Happy People in 1998, “to provide a missing voice for those who are happy and want to express it without having other people rain on their parade.”  It is a day dedicated to recognizing and promoting happiness in our lives and encouraging people to share their positive moments and emotions. On her website she goes on to say, “We spend so much time focusing on our “what’s wrong” moments that we ignore many of our happy moments, so our happiness became a secret — even to us.”

Words that can describe happiness are:

  • Joy- a feeling of great pleasure
  • Contentment-A sense of satisfaction and being at peace with what one has.
  • Bliss- extreme happiness and joy
  • Fulfillment– A sense of achievement and satisfaction derived from reaching goals and aspirations.
  • Harmony- A sense of balance and alignment that contributes to inner happiness.
  • Serenity-A state of calm and tranquility that brings a peaceful happiness.
  • Optimism- A positive outlook on life- a belief that all will work out for the best
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Happiness comes by focusing on the positive aspects of life, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant.

7 ways to nurture happiness in your own life

  1. Fulfilling relationships and strong emotional connections

Fulfilling and close relationships keeps loneliness and isolation away. We are wired for connection.

  1. Personal accomplishments- both great and small

Celebrate your personal accomplishments- no matter how small they are. Every great accomplishment is the result of placing one foot in front of the other (small accomplishments add up)

  1. Cultivate gratitude

Gratitude- the act of being grateful for both the tangible and intangible. Research has repeatedly shown the strong correlation between gratitude and happiness. One way to practice gratitude is to start a daily gratitude journal and list 5 things, no matter how small that you are grateful for.  Even the tea or coffee you are drinking while working on your journal is something to be grateful for. The journal can be as simple as a small notebook or pick up a gratitude journal that has daily affirmations and exercises to encourage you.

  1. Limit negative influences in your life– Influences, such as tv, social media and even consistently negative people can dampen and make achieving personal happiness difficult to attain and maintain. Everyone has a “bad day” or experience; however, when possible, guard your thoughts and eyes from unnecessary drama. The “what ifs” on the tv or social media do nothing but prey on the fight or flight center of your brain. Analyze relationships and how they affect you. When possible, limit those relationships that cause unnecessary distress in your life.
  2. Practice self-care- Self care can mean engaging in satisfying hobbies, time alone, lunch with a friend, a hot bath or anything that brings pleasure, and you look forward to doing. If you aren’t sure what to do, take time to really think about what brings you pleasure and satisfaction- and make time for it!
  3. Help others- Helping others or volunteering, builds relationships and strengthens bonds , leading to a feeling of fulfillment.
  4. Learn and practice resilience- Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and challenges. Cultivate resilience learning from failures and maintaining a positive outlook.

Being happy is linked to improved outlook of health

Studies have shown that being happy can have positive effects on physical and mental well-being.

Some ways in which happiness contributes to health:

  • Stress reduction- Happiness reduces stress. Chronic stress leads to increased cortisol levels. Chronically high cortisol levels can lower immune function, raise blood pressure, and contribute to raised blood glucose levels. Being happy counteracts the effects of stress.
  • Better lifestyle choices leading to longevity– When you are happy, you tend to eat better, are more motivated to exercise and connect with those in your life that you value. In fact, regular, consistent exercise produces mood enhancing endorphins.
  • There is a strong correlation between pain and emotions. Powerful pain-relieving endorphins- natural painkillers-are released while engaging in pleasurable activities. These endorphins reduce the perception of pain.
  • Happiness produces positive emotions– These emotions can promote resilience and help cope with the ups and downs of everyday life. Positive relationships are linked to improved mental health and overall cognitive function. In addition, problem solving abilities are enhanced when happy.
  • Happiness isn’t something that just “happens”. Personal responsibility and getting to know yourself- your genetics, overall health and personality, environment and abilities all play an important role in happiness. However, taking a proactive role in your personal happiness will yield a more fulfilled (and happy) life.

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

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Keeping you informed and safe.

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Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!

An Illegal Chinese Backed Biolab was Found in California – In December

And we are just now finding out about it

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Prestige Biotech, Inc, a Chinese based company had been illegally operating a biolab containing deadly pathogens in Claifornia since October 2022 according to documents. No CA address can be found for Prestige; addresses found for authorized agents were either empty offices or unverifiable addresses in China.

Located in the San Joquin Valley, the small town of Reedly, city code enforcement workers discovered a garden hose sticking out of the side of a supposedly vacant building back in December of 2022. Upon further investigation, they discovered the building was supposed to be vacant- there were no building permits of certificate of occupancy paperwork filed. Numerous violations prompted city officials to declare the site unsafe and posted “Unsafe to Occupy” signs around the building. Further investigation prompted the notification of many agencies- federal and state- were notified, from the FBI to the CDC and public health officials to further investigate. What they found was a macabre scene of filth, and thousands of unlabeled vials of fluids and suspected biological material. They also discovered, hundreds of mice living in inhumane conditions. The city took possession of the animals, euthanizing 773 of them along with more than 175 were found dead. 

This lab also contained at least 20 different pathogens including specimens of HIV, malaria, coronavirus, hepatitis B and C, streptococcus pneumonia, and 20 refrigerators filled with specimens and tissues. “Certain rooms of the warehouse were found to contain several vessels of liquid and various apparatus,” court documents said. “Fresno County Public Health staff also observed blood, tissue and other bodily fluid samples and serums; and thousands of vials of unlabeled fluids and suspected biological material.”

Government red tape could cost you or your loved ones their life

Considering they (city, state and federal authorities) knew about this unlicensed biolab for months and kept giving the company notice (see timeline of abatement below) without any firm action, I submit bureaucratic red tape, given the vast array of deadly pathogens ( I was only able to locate a few of them) could have possibly put the general public in mortal danger.

Fresno County Public Health

California Department of Toxic Substances

California Department of Public Health

Federal Bureau of Investigation

Timeline of Abatement orders to Prestige Lab from County of Fresno

  • April 21, 2023 Attempts to communicate with business owners in regards to facility located at 850 I Street, Reedley, CA 93654 since December 19, 2022 from City of Reedley and other public agencies to ascertain contents and items at the facility have been unsuccessful. City of Reedley building officials posted on March 3, 2023 an Unsafe to Occupy Notice in front of the building. Building has limited power source supplying refrigerators and freezers that are storing reagents, biological samples, appearance of containers used to culture virus(es), and multiple chemical containers. Items documented by City of Reedley officials. This order is issued as a result of multiple attempts to communicate with Universal MediTech Inc, Prestige Biotech Inc (“business owners”) currently leasing space located at 850 I Street, Reedley, CA 93654 to confirm hazardous materials, biological specimens, and operational practices to ensure hazardous waste and medical waste are appropriately being disposed of in compliance with Federal and State requirements. CDC has interest in the reagents being stored in the refrigerator/freezer that have been imported from outside of the United States which will require a federal permit which the business does not currently possess.
  • May 31st 2023 Within seven (7) days, the Business identified above must produce a biological abatement and disposal plan for the transport of properly labeled and identified biological specimens consistent with Federal, State, and local regulations. This plan should include transporters with appropriate licensures and certifications as well as a demonstration of commitment from these vendors via a purchase order or binding commitment. All biological specimens in non-operating refrigerators, or specimens that are improperly labeled or unidentified shall be treated as medical waste and abated and disposed of as medical waste. Such transporters contact information must be provided for the Fresno County Department of Public Health to verify
  • By June 11th 2023, the business identified above must produce a biological abatement and disposal plan for the transport of properly labeled and identified biological specimens consistent with federal state and local regulations. This plan should include transporters and with appropriate licensures and certifications as well as a demonstration of commitment from these vendors via a purchase order or binding commitment period all biological specimens in non operating refrigerators are specimens that are improperly labeled for unidentified shall be treated as medical waste and abated and disposed as medical waste.

All of the biological agents were destroyed by July 7 following a legal abatement process by the agency.

This lab that was left to operate for 7 months before it was shut down.  by reviewing the biosafety levels required by labs that test pathogenic diseases.

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4 Biosafety Lab Levels

BSL1

  • Controlled access
  • Hand washing sink
  • Sharp hazards warning policy
  • Personal protective equipment
  • Laboratory bench
  • Autoclave

BSL2

  • Controlled access
  • Hand washing sink
  • Sharp hazards warning policy
  • Physical containment device
  • Personal protective equipment
  • Laboratory bench
  • Autoclave

BSL3 (with risk-based enhancements)

Biosafety Level 3 is applicable to clinical, diagnostic, teaching, research, or production facilities in which work is done with indigenous or exotic agents that may cause serious or potentially lethal disease as a result of exposure by inhalation. HIV can be either level 2 or 3 depending on concentration and quantity of virus

  • Air tight when disinfecting
  • Self-closing, double-door access
  • Controlled access
  • Personal shower out (risk-based enhancement)
  • Sharp hazards warning policy
  • Hand washing sink
  • Sealed penetrations
  • Physical containment device
  • Powered air purifying respirator (risk-based enhancement)
  • Laboratory bench
  • Autoclave
  • Exhaust HEPA filter (risk-based enhancement)
  • Effluent decontamination system (risk-based enhancement)

BSL4

  • Air tight
  • Self-closing, double-door access
  • Controlled access
  • Sharp hazards warning policy
  • Hand washing sink
  • Sealed penetrations
  • Physical containment device
  • Positive pressure protective suit
  • Laboratory bench
  • Autoclave
  • Chemical shower out
  • Personal shower out
  • Supply and exhaust HEPA filter
  • Effluent decontamination system

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Recent Posts

Keeping you informed and safe.

Planning a Cruise?

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Be sure to pack these Jase add-ons An outbreak of vomiting and diarrhea has been reported on the luxury cruise ship, the Queen Victoria. As of last count, at least 154 people have taken ill since the ship set sail in early January. The number of passengers on board...

A Rare Case of the Plague Was Found in Oregon

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Could you be next?Early this week an Oregon resident was diagnosed with bubonic plague. This is the first diagnosed case in nearly a decade. It is believed the person contracted the disease from their cat. Cats that hunt rodents can become infected and spread the...

Join Our Newsletter

Our mission is to help you be more medically prepared. Join our newsletter and follow us on social media for health and safety tips each week!

Mosquito and Tick-Borne Diseases are on the Rise – Don’t be Their Next Victim

Mosquito and tick-borne illnesses have been in the news recently and for good reason- According to the CDC numbers of cases has tripled from 2004-2016. The disabling and sometimes deadly diseases they carry has taken a massive toll on the public. Outbreaks tend to occur in specific regions but recently disease outbreaks for both ticks and mosquitoes have spread to areas outside their normal areas. This has prompted warnings from health departments to take precautions in mosquito and tick infested areas.

It’s important to note that the distribution and prevalence of tick and mosquito borne diseases can vary by region and season. If you experience symptoms after a mosquito or tick bite, seek medical attention promptly for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

(For a complete list of viruses and parasites that mosquitos carry in the United States go here: CDC list of mosquitos and diseases)

Ticks

Disease carrying ticks are found in all areas of the United States. Each region has its unique set of ticks, however in recent years outbreaks of ticks in areas not normally found have been discovered.

Ticks are vectors for several diseases, meaning they can transmit these diseases to humans and animals when they bite and feed on their blood. Some of the common diseases carried by ticks include:

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Lyme Disease: Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is transmitted primarily by black-legged ticks in the United States. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash called erythema migrans. If left untreated, Lyme disease can lead to more severe symptoms affecting the joints, heart, and nervous system.  Based on insurance records, it is estimated that each year approximately 476,000 Americans are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease. The highest incidence of Lyme disease is in Vermont and Delaware; however, Wisconsin and Minnesota have also had outbreaks. Lyme is spreading and has the highest incidence of tickborne diseases. If the tick bite caught early, a round of antibiotics which are found in the Jase Case can help prevent long term disability.
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Alpha gal syndrome– Although not a disease, alpha gal syndrome can cause an allergy to red meat. Symptoms include rash, nausea, diarrhea, drop in blood pressure, severe stomach pain. Symptoms appear after eating meat dairy products or medications that contain alpha gal (gelatin coated medications) It is believed to be caused by the lone start tick and is found primarily in among people living in the South, East, and Central United States.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF): is primarily transmitted by the American dog tick and the Rocky Mountain wood tick. Symptoms may include fever, headache, rash, and muscle aches. RMSF can be severe and even fatal if not treated promptly. Most cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever have been reported in the eastern U.S., including Georgia, Oklahoma, both North and South Carolina and Tennessee.

Ehrlichiosis: Ehrlichiosis is caused by various species of the bacterium Ehrlichia and is transmitted by lone star ticks and other ticks. Symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, and sometimes rash. Severe cases can result in organ failure if not treated. Most cases are found south-central, southeastern, and mid-Atlantic states.

Anaplasmosis: Anaplasmosis is caused by the bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum and is transmitted primarily by black-legged ticks. Symptoms may include fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. Like ehrlichiosis, severe cases can lead to organ failure if left untreated. Most cases have been reported in upper Midwest and northeastern United States in areas that correspond with the known geographic distribution of Lyme disease.

Babesiosis: Babesiosis is caused by parasites and is transmitted by black-legged in the United States. It can also be transmitted through blood transfusions. Symptoms may include fever, chills, fatigue, and anemia, which can be severe in people with weakened immune systems. Babesiosis is most frequently reported from the Northeastern and Upper Midwestern United States

Powassan Virus Disease: Powassan virus is a rare but potentially serious viral infection transmitted by black-legged ticks and the groundhog tick. It can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). In the US, cases are most often seen in the Northeast and the Great Lakes regions.

It’s important to note that the prevalence of these tick-borne diseases can vary by region, and some ticks may carry multiple pathogens.

Tick Removal (Excerpt from CDC)

  1. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. The key is to remove the tick as soon as possible. Avoid using nail polish, petroleum jelly, or heat to make the tick detach from the skin.
  2. Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don’t twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin. If you are unable to remove the mouth parts easily, leave them alone and let the skin heal.
  3. After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water
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Mosquitos- The world’s deadliest animal, according to the CDC

In the United States, mosquitoes can carry several diseases that pose a threat to public health. Some of the mosquito-borne diseases found in the United States include:

Malaria in Texas and Florida recently discovered. The CDC issued Health Alert Network Health Advisory to notify and share information to clinicians, public health officials and general public. These are the first cases since 2003.In 2002, malaria alone was responsible for around 627,000 deaths worldwide. Symptoms usually start 10 to 15 days after a bite from an infected mosquito, include high fever, chills, nausea or vomiting, headache, diarrhea, and fatigue.

West Nile Virus (WNV): WNV is the most common mosquito-borne disease in the United States. Most people infected with WNV do not show symptoms, but some may experience fever, headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. In rare cases, WNV can cause severe neurological complications and even death. In 2021, an outbreak in Maricopa County, Florida of 1,487 human WNV cases were identified; 956 (64.3%) patients had neuroinvasive disease, and 101 (6.8%) died.

Dengue Fever: Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus. Symptoms of dengue fever include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and bleeding tendencies. Dengue is common in the U.S. territories of American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

La Crosse Encephalitis (LAC): LAC is caused by the La Crosse virus. It primarily affects children and can cause encephalitis with symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness. Outbreaks occur from midwestern states to mid-Atlantic and Southeastern states.

Saint Louis Encephalitis (SLE): SLE is caused by the Saint Louis encephalitis virus. Most outbreaks Most people infected with SLE may not show symptoms, but some may experience fever, headache, dizziness, and, in severe cases, encephalitis. Periodic outbreaks occur year-round in Southern states where weather is temperate and Southwest, Eastern and Central states.

Mosquito and tick prevention

  • Use insect repellent: DEET and other commercially available products have good repellant properties, however it is best to spray on clothing and not directly on skin especially when using on children. If using an essential oil-based repellant, do a patch test by applying to an area of the skin and waiting an hour to make sure there is no reaction. If no reaction (red skin, rash) Use on skin but essential oils must be applied every hour or so for efficacy. Avoid applying to children’s hands, eye area and mouth.

Essential oils that are commonly used as insect repellents:

  • Lemon Eucalyptus Oil: Lemon eucalyptus oil contains a compound which has been found to be as effective as DEET in repelling mosquitoes. The CDC recognizes lemon eucalyptus oil as an effective natural repellent.

Other essential oils with insect repelling properties are: citronella, lavender, peppermint, geranium, cedarwood and tea tree oils.

When using essential oils as repellents, dilute them properly before applying to the skin. Pure essential oils can be irritating to the skin.  Mix the essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, jojoba oil, or almond oil, before applying to the skin. Aim for 1-2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.

Additionally, it’s essential to note that essential oils may not provide as long-lasting protection as commercially available repellents. Reapply them more frequently, especially if you’re in an area with a high concentration of ticks and mosquitoes.

While these studies provide evidence of the repellent properties of essential oils against insects, using essential oils as the sole means of protection in high-risk areas may not be as effective as using EPA-registered insect repellents with proven efficacy.

  • Wear protective clothing: When spending time outdoors in areas where ticks and mosquitoes are common, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to minimize skin exposure.
  • Avoid peak activity times: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, while ticks are more active in warm and humid conditions.
  • Perform regular tick checks: thoroughly check your body and clothing for ticks, especially areas like the scalp, behind the ears, under the arms, inside the belly button, around the waist, and between the legs.
  • Shower after outdoor activities: Taking a shower can help wash away ticks and reduce the risk of bites.
  • Use tick prevention methods for your pets to minimize the risk of bringing ticks into your home. Check pets thoroughly before letting them enter your home.
  • Create a tick-safe zone: keep the grass short and remove leaf litter to reduce tick habitats
  • Remove standing water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so regularly empty or remove sources of standing water around your home.
  • Stay on marked trails: When hiking or walking in wooded areas, stay on marked trails and avoid walking through tall grass or brush where ticks are more prevalent.

 

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

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Record Breaking Heat Wave Sears the Country – And its Not Letting Up Anytime Soon

Summer- a time of long, endless days of warm weather that children across the country look forward to when school lets out. Swimming, hiking, bicycling, and even setting up camp and stargazing in the backyard are the stuff that fond memories are made of.

All these fun activities, however, can pose potential illness or danger, especially when its hot outside.

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Heat wave sweeps the country

Record breaking heat was recorded in Miami, Austin and Phoenix over the past few days. Even Portland Oregon, usually known for its cooler weather broke daily records.  You don’t have to have record breaking weather to suffer overexposure to sun and heat. One recent and very heartbreaking story  out of Vancouver was of a one-year-old child that died from heat stroke in a car while the outdoor temperature was only 70-75 degrees. The inside of the car reached 110 degrees.  According to the National Safety Council on average more than 38 children from the ages of 1-15 die from heatstroke, mostly from being in a hot car. July is the month that most of these deaths occur, according to the website.

That quick trip into the store for a quart of milk could prove dangerous, even fatal to a young child left unattended in a vehicle.

Populations most at risk for heat related illnesses
Heat related illnesses can affect anyone but certain populations are more prone than others. These include:

Age: Infants, young children, and elderly individuals are more susceptible to heat related illnesses. Both children and elderly have a reduced ability to regulate body temperature.

High heat exposure: High temperatures for extended periods, especially during a heat wave, can put anyone at risk for heat related illness.

High humidity: When the humidity is high, the body’s ability to cool down through sweating is reduced, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses, including heat stroke.

Chronic health conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, obesity, and diabetes, can reduce the body’s ability to handle heat stress, making individuals more susceptible to heat stroke.

Medications: Some medications can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate temperature, leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Take precautions if on any medications. The following is a brief list- check your specific medication for more information:

Anticholinergic drugs: These medications block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in various bodily functions, including sweating. By reducing sweating, these drugs can hinder the body’s ability to cool down effectively. Examples include certain antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants, and medications for overactive bladder.

Diuretics: Diuretics, commonly known as water pills, increase urine production, which can lead to dehydration. Dehydration impairs the body’s ability to regulate temperature, making it harder to dissipate heat. Some diuretics cause electrolyte imbalances which can further compromise health.

Beta-blockers: Beta-blockers are used to treat various conditions, including high blood pressure and heart conditions. They can reduce the heart rate and limit the body’s response to heat, potentially interfering with temperature regulation.

Psychotropic medications: Certain medications used to treat mental health conditions, such as antipsychotics and mood stabilizers, can affect the body’s heat regulation mechanisms, leading to increased heat sensitivity. This is an often-overlooked class of drugs. Be sure to check with pharmacist or read side effects of these drugs before heading off into the heat.

Antidepressants: Some antidepressants, especially those that affect serotonin levels, can impact the body’s thermoregulatory systems, potentially causing an increased risk of heat-related issues.

Antihypertensive medications: Some medications used to lower blood pressure, such as alpha-blockers, can impact the body’s response to heat and affect blood flow to the skin.

Alcohol and drug use: Alcohol and certain drugs can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature and increase the risk of heat stroke.

Physical activity:  Physical activity, particularly in hot and humid conditions, can raise the risk of heat stroke, especially if adequate hydration is not maintained. If not acclimated to the heat this can pose a serious health risk.

Lack of acclimatization: Individuals who are not accustomed to hot weather or are not acclimatized to the heat may be more susceptible to heat stroke. This is especially true for those living in or working in air-conditioned buildings.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke- know the signs and what to do

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two distinct heat-related illnesses, with heat stroke being the more severe condition.

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CDC excerpt on heat exhaustion and heat stroke:

Avoid

When the temperature is very high stay indoors. If you must go outside, dress properly and take breaks often. Know who is at high risk for heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Tips to Beat the Heat

  • Drink plenty of water! (I will add that electrolyte drinks such as these can replace lost fluids and prevent electrolyte imbalance
  • Check on friends and neighbors at high risk for heat-related illness
  • Find airconditioned places to cool off (shopping malls and libraries)
  • NEVER leave kids or pets in a closed, parked vehicle
  • If you go outside, remember:
    • A hat
    • Sunscreen (spf 15 or higher)
    • Lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
    • Water
    • Limit time outdoors. Take breaks often
  • Know who is at high risk:
    • Infants
    • Young children
    • Older adults
    • People with chronic medical conditions

Spot

Know the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Heat Stroke

Signs & Symptoms

  • Very high body temperature (above 103°F)
  • Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
  • Rapid, strong pulse
  • Throbbing headache
  • Dizziness
  • Upset stomach
  • Confusion
  • Passing out

Heat Exhaustion

Signs & Symptoms

  • Heavy sweating
  • Paleness
  • Muscle cramps
  • Tiredness
  • Weakness
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Upset stomach or vomiting
  • Fainting

If you see any of these signs, get medical help immediately.

Treat

While waiting for medical attention, you can help someone with heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

Heat Stroke

Move the victim to a shady area or indoors. Do not give the person fluids.

Cool the body by:

  • Placing person in a cool (not cold) bath or shower
  • Spraying with a garden hose
  • Sponging with cool water
  • Fanning

Continue efforts to cool the person until help arrives or his or her body temperature falls below 102°F and stays there.

Heat Exhaustion

Get medical attention if symptoms get worse or last longer than one hour.

Cool the body with:

  • Cool, nonalcoholic beverages
  • Rest
  • A cool (not cold) bath, shower, or sponge bath
  • Moving to an airconditioned room
  • Wearing lightweight clothing

Seek medical help immediately if symptoms are severe or if victim has heat problems or high blood pressure.

Taking just a few precautions will ensure you and your child will have a fun and adventure filled summer.

- Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Medical Content Writer

Lifesaving Medications

Everyone should be empowered to care for themselves and their loved ones during the unexpected.

Recent Posts

Keeping you informed and safe.

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Join Our Newsletter

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