Health

Tick Season Has Arrived. Protect Yourself With These Tips

Published

6 months ago

2024-05-17

Black-legged tick: Image AP

FORT COLLINS, CO – Tick season has begun across the United States, and experts warn that bloodsuckers may be as prevalent as ever. According to some analysts, another warm winter and other favorable variables will most certainly result in the 2024 tick population being equal to or higher than the previous year.

“It’s very bad and has only been getting worse,” said the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Susanna Visser.

Rising ticks are spreading into new locations, bringing unique diseases. Exotic southern species, such as the Gulf Coast and lone star ticks, are being found in New York and other northern states, for example.

However, the tick that experts warn about the most is the common black-legged tick, which lives primarily in forests and transmits Lyme disease. Infection rates peak in May, with US health officials estimating that roughly half a million Lyme infections occur yearly.

Here is a peek at what to expect this year and how to protect yourself.

Black-legged tick: Image AP

TICK FACTS.

Ticks are little, eight-legged, bloodsucking parasites (arachnids, not insects) that prey on animals and occasionally humans. Some ticks carry illness-causing bacteria, which they spread when they bite.

There is no widely recognized estimate of the number of ticks that exist each year, but scientists agree that ticks are becoming an increasingly widespread health threat in significant parts of the United States.

Blacklegged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks because they feed on deer, are some of the most common in the eastern portion of the United States. They were abundant centuries ago, then declined when woods were cut down, and deer were hunted before rebounding alongside deer in wooded suburbs. Ticks have expanded from New England and the Midwest to the South and Great Plains.

Tick populations fluctuate throughout the year for various reasons. They prefer warm, humid weather and can be seen after a mild winter. The number of deer and mice available to feed is also important.

Researchers estimate that the black-legged tick population has been growing for at least four decades.

“This is an epidemic in slow motion,” stated Rebecca Eisen, a CDC research scientist and tick expert.

Black-legged tick: Image AP

2024 TICK SEASON FORECAST

Weather can influence the severity of a tick season.

Very cold, dry winters can reduce tick numbers, but recent winters have been mild, which some ascribe to climate change.

Scott Williams, a tick researcher at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, stated, “Winters are no longer limiting the tick population.”

Ticks can endure high temperatures but tend to hibernate during a dry summer. That happened in Maine from 2020 to 2022, according to Chuck Lubelczyk, a vector ecologist at the MaineHealth Institute for Research.

However, last year was exceptionally wet, and tick activity increased in Maine, the state with the highest prevalence of Lyme disease in the nation. The weather service predicts increased temperatures and precipitation, so “on paper, at least, it could be a very good year for the ticks,” Lubelczyk added.

Because of the warm winter in Wisconsin, adult ticks remained active longer than usual. The tick nymphs are emerging, and a wet spring is paving the way for a large population, according to Xia Lee, an entomologist with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

The same holds for New York.

“It will be as bad as last year, if not worse,” said Saravanan Thangamani, a tick and tickborne illness researcher at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse.

What is Lyme Disease?

Not all ticks contain disease-causing germs; researchers anticipate that 20% to 30% of black-legged tick nymphs emerging in the Northeast and Midwest during spring and summer will carry the Lyme disease bacteria

Lyme disease symptoms often appear three to thirty days following a bite, including fever, headache, lethargy, and a bull’s-eye-like rash. If you are bitten and develop symptoms, visit a doctor to be treated with antibiotics.

Black-legged tick: Image AP

HOW TO KEEP TICKS AWAY FROM YOU

According to experts, the best course of action is to prevent getting bitten by a tick in the first place.

When you go outside, take note of woody regions and where grassy lands begin to blend into wooded ones. Ticks typically perch on ankle-level plants with extended upper legs, waiting to latch on to an unwary dog or human.

Try to walk in the middle of the walkway, wear light-colored, permethrin-treated clothing, and apply EPA-registered insect repellents.

How to Check for Ticks

When you get inside, check for ticks. They can be found anywhere on the human body, but the most common locations are around the waist, below the knees, between the fingers and toes, underarms, around the belly button, and the neck or hairline

They are more difficult to see while young, so inspect them closely and promptly remove them with tweezers.

The CDC does not advocate submitting individual ticks to testing services for analysis since a person may receive more than one tick bite, and the results of the tested tick may not provide enough information.

SOURCE – (AP)

Health

A Canadian Teenager’s Bird Flu Virus Has Mutations

Published

2 days ago

2024-11-22

Salman Ahmad

HealthDay

(VOR News) – Health experts have warned that the Bird Flu virus identified in Vancouver has undergone alterations that may increase its transmissibility to humans, a circumstance that Canadian officials believe could occur.

“No additional cases have been identified” after monitoring many potential contacts among the adolescent’s friends, family, and healthcare providers; however, there is no indication that the single Canadian teen is the only one infected with this specific mutant H5N1. Brenda Henry, British Columbia’s provincial health officer,

Bird Flu

Dr. Jesse Bloom of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle told CNN that this is “undoubtedly one of the initial instances where we have observed evidence of such adaptive mutations in H5”.

Bloom observed that the teen’s symptoms began one week before hospitalization, giving the Bird Flu extra time to strengthen its capacity to infiltrate the desired cells.

Significantly, the calf is in critical but stable condition, having contracted a different strain of the virus than the one that affects dairy calves in the United States. An H5N1 strain is circulating throughout Pacific Northwest wild bird populations.

Because there was no documented link with wild birds, Canadian officials are still unsure how the adolescent contracted the illness.

The three discovered alterations in the Canadian example are determined to be at specific regions on the genome, which would improve binding to human cells.

“Numerous influenza virologists, myself included, have observed it due of certain sequences exhibiting indications of mutations that concern us,” he said.

Following a toddler in Alameda County who was exhibiting minor upper respiratory symptoms, California determined the child may have Bird Flu. According to a news release from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), the young person is recovering at home following treatment.

Although the patient has had no recorded interaction with an affected animal, the CDPH reports that health officials are investigating possible exposure to wild birds. In addition, they reported, “the positive test indicated a low-level detection of the virus, suggesting the child was unlikely to be infectious to others.”

Four days later, the youngster’s next bird flu test returned negative; further research found that the child tested positive for respiratory infections, which could be causing their Bird Flu and cold symptoms. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will collect test specimens for the next investigation.

California officials emphasized that, despite the reported occurrence, the public health risk remained extremely low.

“We aim to reassure parents, caregivers, and families that, according to our information and data, we do not believe the child was infectious, and no human-to-human transmission of bird flu has been recorded in any country for over 15 years,” stated Dr. Tomás Aragón, head of the CDPH. “It is normal for people to show concern.”

According to the CDC, 53 Americans had confirmed instances of avian flu, with all but one being exposed to contaminated poultry or dairy cows.

In the California example, all of the child’s relatives tested negative, and there is no evidence that the virus moved from person to person.

Dairy cows

The virus first appeared in a pig last month. Seven states have already verified cases of avian influenza, with Oregon reporting the first human case last week. Most incidents have occurred among farmworkers.

California has the state’s largest confirmed human avian influenza infection count, with 27 cases reported (excluding the infant from Alameda County). According to CDC records, there are 11 cases in Washington and 10 in Colorado.

Recent developments have heightened public health experts’ concerns about the prospect of the avian flu virus spreading from person to person.

Since March, the disease has spread to approximately 600 dairy farms in 15 states nationwide. Bird flu has been frequent among domestic and wild birds in the United States for several years.

Dr. James Lawler, co-director of the University of Nebraska’s Global Center for Health Security, recently told the New York Times that “we should be very concerned at this juncture.” “We ought to allocate considerable resources to ascertain the situation, but at this time there is no need for alarm.”

Health

Pancreatic Cancer Among Young People Is No Longer Alarming.

Published

5 days ago

2024-11-20

Salman Ahmad

(VOR News) – Experts have voiced apprehension regarding the increasing incidence of pancreatic cancer among youth; nevertheless, a recent study reveals that this surge in diagnoses has not been paralleled by a commensurate increase in mortality rates attributed to the disease.

What is the reason? Researchers assert that contemporary, more sensitive imaging scans may identify early, non-fatal occurrences of pancreatic cancer in individuals under 40 that were previously undiscovered.

Researchers have noted growing concerns from several registries regarding the rising prevalence of pancreatic cancer among young individuals, especially women, in the United States and worldwide. “While some ascribe this trend to rising obesity rates, others have identified no discernible cause.”

Analyzing the data

The statistics on pancreatic cancer conflate endocrine malignancies and adenocarcinomas, which are two entirely different tumor forms occurring in the same organ.

The first form generally requires years to develop and increase, whereas the second type is characteristically aggressive and spreads rapidly.

The rising prevalence of pancreatic cancer among younger Americans is mostly attributed to an enhanced diagnosis of smaller, early-stage endocrine tumors rather than an escalation in pancreatic adenocarcinoma cases, the researchers noted.

The declining mortality rate of pancreatic cancer, juxtaposed with the rising incidence of new cases, implies that the recent surge in early-onset pancreatic cancer indicates the identification of previously undiagnosed disease rather than an actual rise in cancer prevalence.

Researchers, under the leadership of Dr. Vishal Patel, a surgical resident at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, acknowledged the increasing incidence of pancreatic cancer among young individuals. Their research, published on Monday in the Annals of Internal Medicine, contains the following information:

Pancreatic cancer operations

Restricting the increase of tumors in their first stages is a significant point to consider. This data indicates a phenomenon termed overdiagnosis, characterized by a rise in mortality that does not correspond with the increase in case numbers.

More dangerous adenocarcinomas are occasionally identified at an earlier stage during abdomen scans conducted for unrelated reasons. Conversely, the study’s authors assert that the prevalence of adenocarcinomas among young individuals has remained constant across all stages of the disease.

Meanwhile, the researchers indicated that CT scans and MRIs, which are increasingly sensitive and utilized for a broader range of applications than before, can identify less malignant endocrine tumors in the pancreas.

Dr. H. Gilbert Welch, a senior researcher at the Center for Surgery and Public Health at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, stated to the New York Times, which published the findings, “The more you are imaged, the more these issues will arise.”

Upon discovery of any issue, both individuals and medical professionals may feel compelled to act.

Dr. Folasade May, a gastroenterologist at the University of California, Los Angeles, stated in an interview with the Times, “Occasionally, we observe anomalies on imaging that necessitate further investigation.” “Ultimately, they may necessitate significant surgical intervention.”

Patients needing surgery

As indicated by the doubling of pancreatic cancer surgical interventions among patients aged 25-34, there has been a substantial increase in surgical interventions for pancreatic cancer among young patients as well.

Dr. Adewole Adamson, a specialist in overdiagnosis at the University of Texas at Austin and a co-author of the paper, stated, “Many patients express a desire for removal.” “Upon receiving a cancer diagnosis, one feels compelled to take action.”

Patients and clinicians should be aware of the following considerations in the future.

The research team states, “Pancreatic cancer may now be subject to overdiagnosis, referring to the identification of disease that is unlikely to result in symptoms or mortality.” “Overdiagnosis is particularly alarming in the context of pancreatic cancer, given that pancreatic surgery carries significant risks of morbidity and mortality.”

Health

Natural Remedies for Men’s ED Health Problems

Published

5 days ago

2024-11-20

Geoff Brown

Natural Remedies for Men’s Health Problems

The limit for a male to develop and keep a relentless erection during sexual exercises is known as an erectile problem or ED. At present, ED is a major issue for guys.

While ED is viewed as a medical problem for men that influences both more youthful and more established guys, it influences about 33% of individuals younger than 40 habitually.

How about we see how enhancements and fixings can support overseeing Erectile Dysfunction (ED)? Find the natural product that guides ED capabilities similarly to the Cenforce 100mg and Cenforce 150mg from Damson Pharmacy.

What is ED?

ED Erectile Dysfunction is what is happening in which the individual can’t get an erection, or if it happens, can’t keep one.

Then again, on account of Erectile Dysfunction medicine, getting an erection or saving it for enough time to encounter sexual relations isn’t an issue of the greatest request.

For certain individuals who are inclined to ED, these meds could be hazardous and not assist with ED side effects and signs.

If different medicines for erectile breakdown presently do not work, disposing of hindrances in coronary courses or medical procedures could be plausible.

For what reason is ED Should Now Not Ignored?

A sign you’ll be distressed with a possibly dangerous disease. In this manner, assuming that you know you’re in a place of feebleness among grown-up guys, yet you don’t consider it, you’re playing the fool in your life.

Limit your alcohol consumption.

Although there is no clear correlation between alcohol use and erectile dysfunction, binge drinking can impair your sexual prowess.

We’ve all aware of “whisky dick,” a type of temporary ED brought on by alcoholic beverages. However, according to studies, certain negative impacts of alcohol use on your sexual health happen over time rather than simply while you’re feeling inebriated or hangover-like.

For instance, scientists discovered in one study that the single most significant predictor of having sexual problems is the overall number of alcoholic beverages people consume. Said, the more booze you consume, the more probable it is to have an impact on your sex life.

This is because ED is a sign that you are experiencing some of the previous infirmities that influence the heart, including coronary hypertension, cardiovascular sickness, discomfort, diabetes, Personae’s illness sorrow, heart issues corpulence, Different Sclerosis, and oxidative strain. Other symptoms include rest inconveniences, elevated cholesterol levels, and Parkinson’s disease.

As you can understand, if you experience the ill effects of ED, you may be impacted by a couple of the clinical issues recorded previously.

As you will notice, many of the illnesses recorded above will probably be life-undermined. So, when you notice that you’re experiencing issues with fruitlessness, you ought to search for treatment for erectile problems straight away. If you don’t do so, it could prompt a deficiency in your life.

What are some extraordinary food choices for ED?

Berries

Berries enjoy many benefits, including the ability to decrease fat. Moreover, the nutrients in pink berries assist in improving sperm quality.

It’s not difficult to drink and is reasonable for everyone. The natural product can be consumed without guarantees, joined with yogurt for protein, or as a nutritious breakfast for those experiencing ED.

Beetroot

One of the most outstanding food varieties for those experiencing ED is beetroot. Beetroot is practically identical to the famous ED medicine Conventional Cenforce 100 mg as far as its technique works. Nitric oxide levels ascend with Conventional Viagra, which loosens up the conduits and veins and increments the penis bloodstream.

Beets are an extraordinary wellspring of nitrates that have been changed into nitrites in the mouth while being benefited from. The nitrates convert to Nitric oxide in the stomach, widening veins and conduits and lifting the bloodstream, which is like how Conventional Viagra works.

Oats

Oats are not an undeniably exhilarating or physically engaging food; in any case, they are a strong source in the treatment of ED. Arginine is tracked down in both watermelon and cereal.

Fildena, or wild oats, improves men’s well-being and sexual attributes. Research has found that Avena sativa helps the arrival of testosterone reinforced inside the dissemination, which permits the testosterone to be more viable.

Way of life and awkwardness for folks?

On the off chance that the justification for your ED has not yet been laid out. It is a plausible choice for you to look at your existence with help from your primary care physician.

What you ought to know about is Erectile Dysfunction Markers can be connected to issues in the bloodstream inside the erection. Men’s Wellbeing: The decisions you’re making could be restricting the progression of venous back to the erection. This may be the justification for your ED.

This represents a male wellbeing way of life that can assist you with forestalling the improvement of heart infections. The following are the essential elements:

Ensure your blood pressure is within the range where it will rupture but not too high.

Identify a typical outfit.

You have never smoked, or if you have, you have been given medical advice to help you stop.

Which are the best answers for treating ED?

Minerals and food aren’t the main solutions for ED. There are different choices, as well. Oral medications are one of the choices to manage the signs and side effects of erectile problems.

Fortunately, you want to purchase the top oral meds on the planet that men across the world can utilize to treat the masculinity flimsy spot (ED) straightforwardly here.

There’s a far superior advantage for you: these medications are accessible and conveyed right to your entryway. There’s a compelling reason to stress over where you are everywhere.

We can guarantee you that you will get it! For quite a long time, people all over the globe have visited Conventional Estate’s internet-based drug store, Nonexclusive Manor, to purchase a range of medications and wellbeing items for men.

On the off chance that you’re experiencing male feebleness and are searching for the best answer for male Erectile Dysfunction, you can think that it is here, and we will help you.

When to contact a specialist?

An individual ought to talk with a specialist on the off chance that they are encountering ED consistently.

If they would prefer not to talk with a specialist, individuals might wish to attempt home cures, like normal activity, decreasing liquor consumption, and abstaining from smoking. They may likewise really like to address emotional wellbeing proficiently and attempt talk treatment for ED.

It is critical to take note that ED medicine and regular solutions for ED can cause serious aftereffects. There is likewise a gamble of cooperation with existing drugs. In this way, an individual ought to constantly talk with a specialist before consuming anything to treat ED.

How long do they work?

XYZ is remembered to incorporate sildenafil citrate, which is the very empowering Men’s Wellbeing item that is Nonexclusive Viagra. It is really smart to act notwithstanding Conventional Viagra. It requires roughly 45 minutes to accomplish this and approaches 4-6 hours.

Takeaway

In conclusion, there are several treatment options available for ED symptoms, and the most effective ones rely on the true cause.

Before ingesting any new vitamins or over-the-counter medicines, a patient should see a medical practitioner whenever practical since they may interact negatively with already-taken prescriptions.

The FDA does not approve OTC ED drugs since they may be harmful. An individual with ED should think about taking recommended therapies or talking to a doctor about other possibilities.