Entomology: Protecting McConnell from pests Published July 8, 2009 By Airmen 1st Class Susan Perez and James Thomas 22nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. -- Not only are insects annoying, but they can also inflict discomfort, pain and illness to people. Insects can transmit disease through their stinging and biting, thus becoming less of a nuisance and more of a real threat. When Airmen go into combat and placed in rugged and remote areas, insects can have a devastating impact. Medical Entomology is the study of insects, spiders, ticks and mites and the discomfort, pain and diseases they cause. However, the Air Force medical service further expands the Medical Entomology program to include all animals that may harm Air Force members, including rats, birds and feral animals. Here at McConnell, Public Health Airmen go to various locations on base to set up mosquito traps several times a week, and when they capture enough mosquitoes, they pack them in Petri dishes and ship them to San Antonio. The Entomologist at Brooks City-Base identifies the species of the mosquitoes and tests them to determine if they are carrying any harmful diseases which could affect Air Force members. Public Health staff ensures preventive measures are taken to protect people from being harmed by the insects and rodents wandering on base. Public Health members also provide education on the types of spiders found in the local area and on how to keep mosquitoes from breeding in certain places. One way is to make sure there is nothing that could hold water for a long period of time. Cups, tires and other hollow objects collect water; this is where mosquitoes lay their eggs. Another way to kill mosquito eggs and larva is by placing Gambusia fish or mosquito eating fish in any outdoor tanks or small ponds. You can keep mosquitoes off of you by using DEET on your skin and permethrin on your clothes. These chemicals are the main ingredients in some insect repellents and can be found at many hunting and games stores. Have a safe and mosquito free summer. For additional information, contact Public Health at 759-5167.