Recording-2025-03-01T13:39:15.811Z

Introduction

• Animal-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, and West Nile virus are spreading due to climate change.

• Mosquito-borne illnesses are a significant concern, impacting human health globally.

• An overview of the epidemiological landscape in the U.S. regarding these diseases.

Overview of Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Global Statistics

• In 2021, malaria infected 247 million people, leading to 619,000 deaths primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa.

• Dengue fever affects 100-400 million people annually, causing over 20,000 deaths.

• WHO estimates that nearly half of the world's population is at risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

• Historically, mosquito-borne illnesses have killed about half of all humans who have ever lived.

Treatment and Historical Context

• Effective symptomatic treatments for malaria and dengue exist, improving survival rates today.

• The U.S. faced malaria outbreaks historically, prompting the creation of the CDC in 1946 for disease eradication.

• DDT was used for mosquito control but was banned due to its harmful effects on humans and the environment, leading to the eradication of malaria in the U.S. by 1951.

Impact of Climate Change on Disease Spread

• Changes in weather patterns affect the incidence of mosquito-borne diseases, leading to more periodic outbreaks.

• Development of resistance to pesticides like DDT is complicating control efforts.

• Mosquitoes thrive in warmer temperatures, expanding their range geographically.

Focus on Specific Diseases

West Nile Virus

• Most prevalent mosquito-borne disease in the U.S.:

  • Asymptomatic cases: Approx. 80% of infected individuals display no symptoms.

  • Symptoms: Fever, muscle aches, chills in symptomatic individuals; severe neurological symptoms can occur in vulnerable populations (elderly, infants, those with chronic illnesses).

• West Nile virus has been detected in all lower 48 states, with cases expected to rise in traditionally colder regions due to milder winters.

Zika Virus

• Zika gained attention during the 2016 Rio Olympics:

  • Over 200,000 cases in Brazil and 5,000 in the U.S.

  • Congenital illnesses: Can cause microcephaly and other lifelong disabilities in infants.

• Concerns about sexual transmission, making it especially relevant for pregnant individuals.

• Zika-carrying mosquitoes are migrating northward as temperatures rise.

Lyme Disease

• Increasing threat from ticks:

  • Estimates suggest over 400,000 cases annually, though the CDC reports only 20-30,000.

  • Symptoms: Fever, joint pain, muscle aches, and characteristic bull's eye rash after a tick bite.

• Undetected Lyme disease can turn chronic, impacting organs, brain, heart, and causing arthritis.

• Tick population growth linked to warmer seasons and milder winters, extending their activity period and geographic reach.

Valley Fever

• Caused by a fungus in soil, which becomes airborne during dust storms:

  • Most cases are self-limiting, but severe infections can lead to chronic pneumonia and spread to other body parts.

  • Cases concentrated in Arizona and California, with increasing spread expected due to climate change.

Prevention Measures

Protection Against Mosquitoes

• Use insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

• Wear long sleeves and pants, especially during dusk and dawn.

Ticks

• Similar preventative measures apply: repellents and appropriate clothing.

• Conduct thorough tick checks on yourself and pets after outdoor activities.

  • Remove ticks within 24 hours to reduce Lyme disease risk using sterilized tweezers.

Valley Fever

• Stay indoors during dust storms and poor air quality conditions.

• Minimize dust exposure during gardening or construction; use air filtration.

• N95 masks recommended in dusty conditions.

Conclusion

• Awareness of these diseases is crucial for outdoor safety.

• Engagement with the audience for sharing personal concerns and experiences related to these diseases.