Jul262017 by Lauraine Ayers-BrielNo Comments
Another problematic vector spotted in East Maui

Another problematic vector spotted in East Maui

In the news, Vector Control
From Wikipedia - Platydemus manokwari, also known as the New Guinea flatworm, is a species of large predatory land flatworm. Platydemus manokwari is a paratenic host for the nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis, also known as the rat lungworm. This nematode parasitizes Platydemus manokwari as well as the Giant African land snail, and both of these organisms are transmission vectors of the parasite. A. cantonensis parasitizes humans as well and causes angiostrongyliasis. Platydemus manokwari acts as a transmission vector of the parasite to humans and affects the epidemiology of angiostrongyliasis.[11] In an outbreak of angiostrongyliasis in the Okinawa Prefecture, populations of Angiostrongylasis cantonensis intermediates were examined in order to find the most frequently infected intermediates. Platydemus manokwari was found to be one of the prevailing infected hosts, with an infection rate of 14.1%.…
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Jul262017 by Lauraine Ayers-Briel1 Comment

Experts say more research is needed

Diagnosis and Treatment, Food Safety, In the news
“We all should consider that a good portion of rats, slugs and snails in Hawaii are likely infected. It’s important to inspect, wash and store all produce carefully, and reduce or prevent snails/slugs from entering gardens by using raised beds, copper tape and poison control,” Dela Cruz said. “Like many health issues, prevention is key.” http://westhawaiitoday.com/5675310.html
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Jul122017 by Lauraine Ayers-BrielNo Comments

Water Storage Safety

Food Safety, Vector Control
Chris Baz with Eco Products Maui, who has years of experience installing and maintaining catchment systems on Maui, has offered protocols on safe water storage for RLW prevention. College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources at University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa has published Guidelines on Rainwater Catchment in Hawaii by Patricia S. Macomber, including information on: 1. Water collection—how to catch the water, how much water you need 2. Water storage—what to keep it in 3. Catchment system maintenance—identifying problems, keeping the tank clean 4. Water treatment—sources of water contamination, principles of water treatment 5. Water testing—keeping tabs on water quality 6. Fire fighting concerns
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