J is for J E or Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus is the leading cause of vaccine-preventable encephalitis in Asia and the western Pacific. For most travelers to Asia, the risk for JE is very low but varies based on destination, length of travel, season, and activities. Most people infected with JE do not have symptoms or have only mild symptoms. However, a small percentage of infected people develop inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), with symptoms including sudden onset of headache, high fever, disorientation, coma, tremors and convulsions. About 1 in 4 cases are fatal. To prevent getting sick from JE, use an EPA-registered insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and get vaccinated.
The A-B-C-Disease Series is located along White Trail of The City of Middletown’s Reservoir Trails. This section is situated between two parking areas so if you plan carefully, with two cars you only have to hike one way (approximately 1.5 miles). The terrain difficulty of the trail ranges from a 2.0 to about a 4.0. and offers some scenic areas to visit. All of the containers for the series are Pill Bottles to go with the theme.
The City of Middletown, working with The Trust for Public Land, has opened up its 1,250-acre watershed for public access and has developed plans to turn it into a vibrant community public space.
About The Reservoir Trails ...
Just minutes from downtown Middletown, you can experience a nearby wilderness as you walk, run, or bike on over eight and a half miles of woods roads and trails. Visitors take-in stunning views of Monhagen Reservoir, Highland Reservoir, and Shawangunk Reservoir, which have provided clean drinking water to local residents since the 1860s. This forested watershed includes century-old stands of white pines that create a shady and peaceful retreat. During your visit you may see deer, foxes, and maybe even a black bear!