Ticks are a frequent source of conversation and irritation during summer months in the Inland Northwest. In Washington state, ticks carry few diseases and reported cases are few, as compared to other states. In the Spokane-area, only three tick-borne diseases are rarely locally-acquired: tickborne relapsing fever, tularemia, and tick paralysis. However, other diseases are noted.
Two Spokane County individuals, each under the age of 10, were confirmed to have E. coli O157:H7 infections that could be linked to romaine lettuce from the Yuma, Arizona growing region.
Spokane continues to make new strides against the painful and costly effects of dental disease. These efforts are certainly needed given we live in largest city in Washington that doesn’t have the benefit of community water fluoridation.
A new device that could be particularly enticing to youth, called JUUL, is now on the market and there are several details to be aware of.
