|
RODERICK L. BREMBY, SECRETARY |
K A N S A S DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT |
KATHLEEN SEBELIUS, GOVERNOR |
For Immediate Release:
September 20, 2004
Contact:
CRAWFORD COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
410 EAST ATKINSON
PITTSBURG, KS. 66762
PRELIMINARY RESULTS POINT TO STRAW ITCH MITE AS CAUSE OF R ASH/BITES IN SE KANSAS
A team from Centers for Disease Control, Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Kansas State University, University of Nebraska, Kansas Department of Agriculture, Pittsburg State University, Kansas State Extension, and Crawford County Health Department has come to some preliminary findings regarding the rash illness currently under investigation.
Our preliminary information would indicate that the bites are a result of the straw itch mite, the Pyemotes spp. This mite is invisible to the naked eye and is a parasite that feeds on insect larvae associated with grain and storage. They are small enough to waft in the breeze like dust.
The mites were identified in sample galls found on oak trees that were sent to Kansas State University. University of Nebraska and Kansas State University collaborated in identifying the mite.
The unusual weather conditions this summer is probably a factor in their increased population.
The Health Department recommends the use of insect repellent containing DEET for preventing the bites. Avoid grassy areas, and shower with plenty of soap and water after being in grassy areas. Oral antihistamines and topical anti-itch creams have been useful in alleviating the discomfort caused by the bites. In most cases the bites clear in one to two weeks. If you continue to have discomfort, see your physician.
It is not advisable to spray for the mites as they are in encapsulated and the spray would not be effective. Mite populations should decrease or completely disappear with the onset of our first frost.
There is no evidence that the bites transmit disease, nor that there is a person to person transmission of the mite.