on March 28, 2014, 7:33 pm, in reply to "Re: Valley Fever"64.118.110.119
| Larry- The risk of inhaling airborne pathogens is not unique to La Manzanilla, though sanitation factors in town do certainly increase your exposure. Aspiration of bacterial, viral, fungal and particulate toxins is a realistic risk anywhere in the world. Maintaining a strong immune system is the best defense, through diet and exercise. I also take zinc, calcium/magnesium, and potassium iodide daily. I am a plumber, so suffer a greater likelihood than many to be exposed to some of these pathogens. When I work on sewage systems I wear, at a minimum, a particle mask, gloves and a protective suit. In enclosed areas I wear a respirator. If I am confronted with a blackwater spill I use a biodigestive enzyme spray to treat the affected area. In a pinch I scatter hydrated lime over the area, but calcium hydroxide is caustic so the powder itself can cause lung and eye irritation. Over time, sanitation in La Manzanilla has, and will continue to improve. We cannot assume that visitors who have contracted coccidiodomycosis, histoplasmosis, leptospirosis, COPD, hepatitis, cholera, typhoid fever or teburculosis were exposed in La Manzanilla. Recognizing the odor and trace signs of blackwater and avoiding those places is key. Avoid chicken and pig farms. Stay away from dusty construction sites. Stay out of the old broken hotel on the beach. And don't be afraid to wear a mask. |
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