TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Oklahoma -- Although, the overall disease risk for Tinker Air Force Base is currently low, it’s always a good idea to follow mosquito and tick precautions when outdoors.
More than a nuisance, mosquito species local to the area can potentially carry diseases such as Zika, Yellow Fever, Dengue Fever, and the West Nile Virus.
Since April 2021, Public Health has captured Aedes Epactius, Psorophora Ciliata, Psorophora Columbiae, Psorophora Horrida, and Anopholese puncitpennis mosquito species during routine surveillance in various areas of the installation. All were submitted for analysis and all tested negative for disease.
The Lone Star tick, American Dog tick, and Gulf Coast tick were also identified as part of the vector surveillance program. At the Glenwood training site, 14 ticks were captured. Lab analysis indicated that two of the ticks tested positive for diseases, but they are not known to cause human illness.
Avoiding mosquitoes and ticks can best be accomplished through the use of repellents and by removing areas where the pests live and reproduce.
Use repellents like DEET on skin or Permethrin on clothes to prevent bug bites.
To reduce the insect population, eliminate sources of standing water, pick up yard items or litter, fill holes and cut tall grass.
Most tick-borne rickettsial diseases cause sudden fevers, chills, headaches, body aches, nausea/vomiting, and lack of appetite. If you experience any of these symptoms and may have been exposed to a tick bite, please contact your healthcare provider.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact Public Health at 405-582-6542.