Outbreak of lepidopterism at a Boy Scout camp - 19/08/11
, Ronald E. Voorhees, MD, MPH b, Thomas J. Török, MD, MPH c
Reprint requests: John T. Redd, MD, MPH, FACP, Chief, Hepatitis and Liver Disease Section, Indian Health Service Division of Epidemiology and Disease Prevention, 5300 Homestead Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87508.Atlanta, Georgia, and Santa Fe, New Mexico
Abstract |
Background |
Lepidopterism refers to moth- or butterfly-associated illness, including contact dermatitis, urticaria, and occasional systemic reactions. Lepidopterism outbreaks are rare.
Objective |
To investigate a lepidopterism outbreak associated with caterpillars of the Douglas-fir tussock moth (DFTM; Orgyia pseudotsugata) among Boy Scouts attending summer camp in New Mexico.
Methods |
Retrospective cohort analysis; environmental investigation.
Results |
Attendees were primarily male (100/107; 94%) and less than 18 years old (82/107; 77%). Itch, rash, or hives were reported by 56 of 102 (55%) of campers. Patients were more likely to report direct caterpillar contact (relative risk [RR]: 2.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3-5.5); playing a caterpillar-flicking game (RR: 1.9; 95% CI, 1.1-3.4); and sleeping at campsite 6, where caterpillars were most numerous (RR: 1.7; 95% CI, 1.3-2.4). All patients recovered.
Limitations |
Data on disease status and risk factors were collected retrospectively.
Conclusion |
Modifying behaviors associated with lepidopterism and avoiding areas of heavy infestation can reduce illness risk.
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| The use of trade names is for informational purposes only and does not constitute endorsement by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition, the findings and conclusions of this report are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Funding sources: None. Conflicts of interest: None declared. Presented as an oral presentation at the Centers for Disease Control Epidemic Intelligence Service Conference, Atlanta, GA, April 23-27, 2001. |
Vol 56 - N° 6
P. 952-955 - juin 2007 Retour au numéro
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