How Climate Change Is Fueling A Rise In Deadly Diseases

[Islander]

Sy Mukherjee
Jul 17, 2013

In the summer of 2012, the mosquito-borne West Nile virus made a surprising comeback in America. In Dallas, the most affected region, 400 people contracted the disease and 19 of them died. That came as a shock to public health officials, since West Nile virus was thought to be in such precipitous decline that it was practically eradicated.

Now, a little detective work has led epidemiologists to the reason for its resurgence: warmer winters and wetter springs. In other words, the consequences of global climate change are fueling West Nile. And it’s just the tip of the iceberg. Health officials expect the number of people contracting other infectious diseases to rise right alongside global temperatures.

Read more: http://thinkprogress.org/health/2013...ses/?mobile=nc

[Julieanne]

Just last night on Oz TV, a programme about the rise of superbugs. But mostly attributed to overuse of antibiotics. Don't think we have West Nile virus here, but we have something pretty bad called Ross River virus, spread by mosquitoes. Having read how catnip is so effective as a repellent, I am going to grow some this spring, as I am a mossie magnet.

Iherb have catnip in an alcohol base, but not the oil. Don't know if I can make the oil myself - any ideas? Or maybe I could add some coconut oil to the alcohol one?

[Reesacat]

Our local newspaper reported that this week mosquitoes are testing positive for West Nile Virus.
I just rub the catnip on bare skin, Julieanne! The kittehs snuggle up when go inside LOL!

[Aaltrude]

I think I might just buy some a catnip plant next time I am in town. Perhaps I just might have to grow it in the Greenhouse initially to protect it from our cat until it gets established.

[Julieanne]

Easy to grow from seed Aaltrude - I am going to grow several. I found instructions on the net for making the oil, but don't know how concentrated it would be. I know you need special equipment for making essential oils.

Maybe Jane Chitty would know more about this?

[jordanwhitman83]

This is just a sad news :( I wish we could help..