In a remarkable success story, the San Carlos Apache Nation has achieved a significant milestone: no deaths from Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) in the last five years. At one point, the reservation experienced infection rates 150 times higher than the national average. Now, thanks to targeted interventions, the community has made strides in reducing the impact of this deadly tick-borne disease.
Rocky Mountain spotted fever, one of the deadliest tick-borne diseases in the United States, can lead to fatality within days if left untreated. On December 6, 2024, NPR science correspondent Pien Huang and producer Megan Lim visited the San Carlos Apache Reservation to learn more about the program that led to this significant reduction in RMSF cases.
The initiative, led by Harty Bendle, Sr., project manager for San Carlos Animal Control, has focused on tick prevention and community awareness. Through collaborative efforts with local authorities and the public, the program has made enormous strides in educating residents about the risks and preventive measures associated with RMSF.
The San Carlos Apache Nation’s success serves as a testament to the power of community-driven health interventions in combating vector-borne diseases. This achievement underscores the importance of proactive measures and continued investment in public health efforts.
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