Tag

Disease Transmission

All articles tagged with #disease transmission

Uganda cave cam reveals bats, leopards, and people shaping Marburg spread
science1 month ago

Uganda cave cam reveals bats, leopards, and people shaping Marburg spread

Camera-trap footage from Python Cave in Uganda shows 10 species feeding on Egyptian fruit bats that carry Marburg virus, including what may be the first documented case of a leopard catching live bats. The study also recorded more than 200 human visitors to the cave during the four-month filming period, despite warnings about Marburg. The findings illustrate how cave exposure remains a key driver of Marburg outbreaks and offer clues about potential intermediate hosts and transmission routes between bats and humans.

Mexico's Vampire Bats May Drive Cross-Species CWD Spread, Study Finds
science1 month ago

Mexico's Vampire Bats May Drive Cross-Species CWD Spread, Study Finds

Researchers warn that common vampire bats in northern Mexico may already feed on CWD-infected cervids, potentially transmitting prions and enabling cross‑species spread as bat ranges expand. The study, which highlights a link between CWD-positive deer movements into Mexico and bat feeding opportunities, calls for ecological studies, prion transmission experiments, and expanded surveillance in overlap zones to proactively assess and mitigate risks to wildlife, livestock, and public health. Findings are preliminary and experts urge caution until more evidence is gathered.

Asian Long-Horned Tick Detected in Kansas, Threatening Pets and Livestock
health7 months ago

Asian Long-Horned Tick Detected in Kansas, Threatening Pets and Livestock

A potentially dangerous Asian long-horned tick has been found on a dog in Butler County, Ohio, marking its first detection in the area. This tick can carry diseases affecting humans and animals, reproduces rapidly through asexual reproduction, and poses a significant health risk. Experts warn to be vigilant and use tick prevention measures year-round to protect pets and humans.

Scientists Identify Bacterial Cause Behind Massive Sea Star Die-Off
science9 months ago

Scientists Identify Bacterial Cause Behind Massive Sea Star Die-Off

Scientists have identified the bacterium Vibrio pectenicida as the cause of sea star wasting disease, a devastating condition that has wiped out millions of sea stars along the West Coast, by conducting controlled infection experiments. This discovery paves the way for better detection and management strategies to help restore affected sea star populations and their ecosystems.

Brevard County Reports Four Local Dengue Cases Amid Increased Mosquito Control Efforts
health10 months ago

Brevard County Reports Four Local Dengue Cases Amid Increased Mosquito Control Efforts

The Florida Department of Health in Brevard County has confirmed four cases of locally acquired dengue fever, transmitted by mosquitoes. Authorities are implementing surveillance, monitoring, and spraying to prevent further spread, and residents are advised to use repellent, eliminate standing water, and repair screens to reduce mosquito bites.

Debunking 14 Myths About Mosquitoes
health10 months ago

Debunking 14 Myths About Mosquitoes

Many common beliefs about mosquitoes are misconceptions; for example, not all mosquitoes bite humans, they can bite through clothing, and natural repellents are less effective than EPA-registered products. Mosquitoes breed in any standing water, not just dirty or stagnant water, and they can transmit diseases even without feeling the bite. Effective control involves integrated pest management, and bats and birds do not significantly reduce mosquito populations. Cold winters do not eliminate all mosquitoes, as some can survive through hibernation or egg diapause.

Invasive Asian Tick Species Rapidly Spreading Across US and PA
health-and-environment1 year ago

Invasive Asian Tick Species Rapidly Spreading Across US and PA

An invasive Asian longhorned tick is rapidly spreading across New Jersey, capable of reproducing without males and posing threats to livestock and potentially transmitting diseases, though not yet Lyme disease. The tick's rapid growth and ability to infest various hosts, including cattle and wildlife, highlight the need for early detection and integrated control measures to manage its spread.

Asian Invasive Ticks Spread Across PA, NJ, and Illinois: What You Need to Know
health-and-environment1 year ago

Asian Invasive Ticks Spread Across PA, NJ, and Illinois: What You Need to Know

An invasive Asian longhorned tick is rapidly spreading in Pennsylvania, increasing by 150% over five years, primarily in southeastern regions. These ticks can reproduce parthenogenetically, laying thousands of eggs without males, and pose a threat to livestock and wildlife, notably transmitting Theileria orientalis, which affects cattle. While they do not currently transmit Lyme disease widely, their potential to spread other diseases and their rapid population growth make them a significant concern. Precautionary measures include early detection, reporting, and integrated pest management.

Unveiling the Hidden Virus: Why Experts Are Concerned
health1 year ago

Unveiling the Hidden Virus: Why Experts Are Concerned

The Oropouche virus, primarily spread by midges and mosquitoes, is causing concern due to a significant rise in cases, particularly in Brazil. The virus, which can cause severe symptoms like encephalitis and birth defects, may also be sexually transmitted, according to recent studies. Factors such as deforestation and viral reassortment are believed to contribute to its spread. Health organizations are urging increased awareness and preventive measures, though a global outbreak is not yet anticipated.