CAUTION:
Rewarming a severely hypothermic casualty is extremely dangerous in
the field due to the possibility of complications such as rewarming shock
and disturbance in the rhythm of the heartbeat.
Section III. OTHER PREVENTIVE MEDICINE MEASURES
9-9.
ARTHROPODS AND ARTHROPOD-BORNE DISEASES
An arthropod is a segmented invertebrate having a hard, jointed exoskeleton and
paired, jointed legs. Examples of arthropods include insects such as mosquitoes,
arachnids such as spiders, centipedes, and millipedes. "Arthropod-borne diseases"
usually refers to diseases transmitted by true insects (such as mosquitoes, lice, and
fleas) and by certain other animals that closely resemble insects (such as ticks and
mites). Examples of communicable arthropod-borne diseases include malaria
(transmitted by mosquitoes), yellow fever (transmitted by mosquitoes), typhus
(transmitted by lice), Rocky Mountain spotted fever (transmitted by ticks), and plague
(transmitted by fleas). Below are some preventive medicine measures (PMM) you can
take to protect yourself from arthropods and arthropod-borne diseases.
a. Use Insect Repellent. One of the best ways to keep the insects from
transmitting diseases to you is to keep them away by using extended-duration arthropod
repellent. Some guidelines are given below.
NOTE:
Read the instructions that accompany the repellent and follow them.
(1) Apply the arthropod repellent skin lotion to all exposed skin except your
eyes, lips, and other sensitive skin.
(2) Spread the repellent lotion two inches under the edges of the battle
dress uniform (BDU). This includes the wrists, ankles, and waistline.
(3)
Keep the lotion away from flame or excessive heat.
(4)
Wipe your hands after applying the lotion.
(5)
Reapply repellent as needed.
NOTE:
Do not wear after-shave lotion or cologne in the field. They attract biting and
stinging insects.
b. Apply Permethrin to Clothing. The IDA kit is most effective, but permethrin
is also available in aerosol formulation.
(1)
Apply permethrin clothing repellent according to the product label.
(2)
Apply permethrin only on fabric, not on skin.
IS0877
9-19
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