the bug geek

USDA launches a 5-pronged plan to combat New World Screwworm. Key initiatives include an $8.5M sterile fly dispersal facility in TX, bolstering the biosecurity barrier with Mexico, and enhancing SIT production.

www.usda.gov/about-usda/n...

Welcome! You are invited to join a webinar: Online training on Vector Surveillance. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the webinar. Vector control is the single most effective intervention for achieving a reduction in malaria transmission in most malaria endemic countries of the world. Such vector control must be underpinned by a ...

Public health & vector control pros: Don't miss APMEN's free online training on Vector Surveillance! Gain key insights from Aug 5-7, 2025.

Secure your spot now: tiny.cc/APMEN-VST

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Malaria ‘back with a vengeance’ in Zimbabwe as number of deaths from the disease triple Withdrawal of USAID funds threatens decades of progress, say experts, with cuts to research and shortage of mosquito nets putting thousands at risk across the country

Here’s a report on how the destruction of USAID is causing harm & death by cutting malaria prevention. www.theguardian.com/global-devel...

I don't think Lucille Ball (who saved Paramount by selling Desilu and Star Trek to them) would be impressed.

You know what, I don't think Lucille Ball would be impressed

Tick risks vary by region. Here's where diseases have spread and how to stay safe Tick bites are are on the rise this and they can carry some nasty illnesses. Which are most common depends where you live. Here's what to know to protect yourself.

Season's severe for ticks! Military entomologists, know regional risks: Lyme (NE/Mid-Atl), Ehrlichiosis/Rickettsiosis (SE), Alpha-gal. Use permethrin-treated gear, check daily, remove ticks fast. Early detection is vital for troop health. Stay vigilant!

www.npr.org/2025/06/23/n...

China’s Mosquito-Sized Drone: Science Fiction Becomes Reality China's mosquito-sized drone mimics real insects for stealth surveillance. A leap in micro-robotics, it raises major concerns.

This new drone mimics insects for stealth surveillance. Equipped with cameras & sensors, it poses a new covert intel threat. This development raises significant force protection concerns, necessitating novel counter-surveillance strategies for the U.S. military.

dronelife.com/2025/07/09/c...

Thank you for the gift article 💚💚💚

Thank you for the gift link 💚💚💚

Vector of the Month: #Hyalomma #marginatum, the Mediterranean Hyalomma, a two-host #tick transmitting pathogens to #humans & #livestock in the Palearctic, authored by Dr Agustin Estrada-Peña.

authors.elsevier.com/a/1lNPB5Eb1x...

We need to bring alpha-gal syndrome and MREs up at the next meeting. More and more services members have it and the military food options are not taking that into consideration

Environmental risk and Alpha-gal Syndrome (AGS) in the Mid-Atlantic United States Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), commonly referred to as the tick bite red meat allergy, has been reported worldwide with the number of suspected cases in the United States increasing from 24 in 2009 to over...

Alpha-gal Syndrome risk in Mid-Atlantic US tied to habitat fragmentation & tick exposure in open/low-dev areas. Personal protection is crucial. Vital for force health & informs targeted prevention in military ops. #Entomology #AlphaGal

journals.plos.org/climate/arti...

AMCA Culicoides RFP Form Please click the link to complete this form.

The AMCA Research Fund invites new pre-proposals for research on predictive modeling, exposure assessment, and mitigation strategies to evaluate the risks of various mosquito control approaches and provide guidance on minimizing those risks.

form.jotform.com/251006502166...

Tick-borne diseases are on the rise beyond Lyme disease. Experts warn of threats like anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and ehrlichiosis, which can affect military personnel. Vigilance in tick prevention & early detection is key. #MilitaryEntomology #TickBorneDiseases

thehill.com/homenews/nex...

I love the alternate common name for this disease

WHO Oropouche virus risk assessment details two lineages

WHO risk assessment on Oropouche virus: Two distinct lineages are spreading in the Americas, primarily vectored by Culicoides midges, with Culex mosquitoes as potential secondary vectors. Be aware of this expanding threat in endemic regions.

www.cidrap.umn.edu/oropouche-vi...

Army entomologist Maj. Paul A. Lenhart placed third in the Excellence in Competition match at the 64th Annual Interservice Rifle Championship at Quantico, earning the U.S. Army Silver EIC Rifle badge. He competed against 49 participants from all services.

www.army.mil/article/2865...

On June 21st, military entomologists from AFPMB, Navy Medicine, and WRAIR engaged ~250 visitors at Bugapalooza! They highlighted insects' importance and the vital role of military entomology.

New research shows the BG-Pro trap significantly improves #MosquitoSurveillance for #LaCrosseVirus vectors! #ForceHealth #VectorControl

jamca.kglmeridian.com/view/journal...

Wisconsin health officials warn of rare Powassan virus as tick season intensifies Nationally, Powassan virus cases are most common in the northeast and Great Lakes regions, including northern Wisconsin.

Rare, severe Powassan virus, transmitted by black-legged ticks, is intensifying in WI. Mil-ento must prioritize surveillance, tick bite prevention, & rapid response for force health protection.

fox11online.com/news/state/w...

So . . . We are letting the criminal go free in exchange for his testimony against the innocent immigrant without papers, is that right?

Bees are collapsing in the U.S. A key to their secrets might vanish. The top federal lab on native bees is set to close under President Trump’s budget.

Trump's budget defunds pollinator research... wapo.st/4n9dpVn

@kristendawn.bsky.social hello, there! 👋

The Tick Situation Is Getting Worse. Here’s How to Protect Yourself.

www.nytimes.com/2025/06/16/w...

#health #news #giftlink

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Just an observation here: this is what the many military members deal with on a daily basis at Camp Lemmonier for their 10+ month rotations. And dengue is as much or more of a problem there than malaria (which is probably worse).

Thank you for sharing this gift article

Lyme disease rising in Michigan, health officials say The tick-borne illness surpassed 1,200 cases reported in 2024.

Lyme disease is surging in MI, posing a higher risk for service members on bases like Camp Grayling & Selfridge ANGB due to outdoor training. Stay vigilant & take preventative measures against ticks! #LymeDisease #Michigan #MilitaryHealth

www.detroitnews.com/story/news/l...

VECTOR Library launches to strengthen response to vector-borne disease threats | Penn State University As the United States observes Lyme Disease Awareness Month in May, public health and extension professionals across the country have a powerful new tool at their fingertips: the VECTOR Library, a cent...

New VECTOR Library offers resources on vector borne disease prevention & control. This centralized, searchable database aids in rapid response & force protection, supporting enhanced surveillance & regional strategies for military entomologists.

www.psu.edu/news/agricul...