O is for Opisthorchis Infection
Opisthorchis species are liver fluke parasites that humans can get by eating raw or undercooked fish, crabs, or crayfish from areas in Asia and Europe where the parasite is found, including Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Germany, Italy, Belarus, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Ukraine. Liver flukes infect the liver, gallbladder, and bile duct in humans. While most infected persons do not show any symptoms, infections that last a long time can result in severe symptoms and serious illness. Untreated, infections may persist for up to 25–30 years, the lifespan of the parasite. Typical symptoms include indigestion, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation. In severe cases, abdominal pain, nausea, and diarrhea can occur. O. felineus, in addition to presenting with the typical symptoms also seen in O. viverrini infections, can present with fever, facial swelling, swollen lymph glands, sore joints, and rash—similar to the signs and symptoms of schistosomiasis. Chronic O. felineus infections may also involve the pancreatic ducts. Diagnosis of Opisthorchis infection is based on microscopic identification of parasite eggs in stool specimens. Safe and effective medication is available to treat Opisthorchis infections. Adequately freezing or cooking fish will kill the parasite.
You might want to rethink eating that sushi!
The A-B-C-Disease Series is located along the White/Blue 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 1.2 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!