W is for Whitmore’s Disease
Whitmore’s disease, also known as Meliodosis is an infectious disease that can infect humans or animals. The disease is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei.It is predominately a disease of tropical climates, especially in Southeast Asia and northern Australia where it is widespread. The bacteria causing melioidosis are found in contaminated water and soil. It is spread to humans and animals through direct contact with the contaminated source.
People can get Melioidosis through direct contact with contaminated soil and surface waters. Humans and animals are believed to acquire the infection by inhalation of contaminated dust or water droplets, ingestion of contaminated water, and contact with contaminated soil, especially through skin abrasions.It is very rare for people to get the disease from another person. While a few cases have been documented, contaminated soil and surface water remain the primary way in which people become infected.
The A-B-C-Disease Series is located along Trails of The City of Middletown’s Reservoir Trails. This section is situated on the Black Trail and is a smooth relatively flat portion that could be done on a bicycle if desired. (approximately 2.2 miles round trip). The terrain difficulty of the trail ranges from a 1.0 to about a 2.0. 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!