Passport Health Of Massachusetts Warns New Englanders, "Exploding Mosquito Population Can Be Deadly, Look For Repellents With At Least 30% DEET!"

Main Category: Tropical Diseases
Also Included In: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses
Article Date: 15 Jul 2009 - 4:00 PDT

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Passport Health of Massachusetts, specialists in vaccinations against dread diseases faced by international travelers, is concerned that eastern New England's wettest spring and early summer in decades can be more deadly than usual.

According to Mount Laurel, New Jersey-based American Mosquito Control Association, "Mosquitoes cause more human suffering than any other organism -- over one million people die from mosquito-borne diseases every year. These include West Nile virus (WNV) and Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). In addition, mosquito bites can cause severe skin irritation through an allergic reaction to the mosquito's saliva -- this is what causes the red bump and itching. Mosquito vectored diseases include protozoan diseases, i.e., malaria, and viruses such as dengue, encephalitis and yellow fever. "

Julie Barker, Executive and Nursing Director of Passport Health of Massachusetts, said, "Although controlled for many years, Malaria is making a comeback in the United States, primarily in the Southeast, and Yellow Fever is very prevalent in Brazil -- both major travel destinations for many New Englanders."

Passport Health of Massachusetts is a major provider of Malaria and Yellow Fever vaccinations, and local area physicians can refer patients for appointments at any time. Passport Health's ready access to ample vaccine supply means that travelers can receive their inoculations well before they embark.

"In addition to inoculations, Passport Health of Massachusetts has a full inventory of mosquito-repellent products, all with a minimum of 30% DEET. Repellents are available in spray-on for clothing, and non-allergenic skin cream at both Boston-area locations," she said.

Source
Passport Health

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