Nine trapping locations were selected at Camp Smith and two trap lines were set at each location. Traps were located near brush piles, downed logs, rock walls, rocks, and anywhere else offering harborage for rodents. All animals were anesthetized with ketaset before removing ticks. All animals were examined with dissecting microscope for ticks. This conjugate is affinity absorbed to minimize cross reactivity with other spirochetes.
Areas trapped include bivouac areas, ranges, and training areas.
The Lyme disease vector, Ixodes dammini, was collected at Camp Smith. Westchester county, where Camp Smith is located, reported 1,767 confirmed cases of Lyme disease in 1991. Implementation of personal protective measures for all military and civilians using Camp Smith for outdoor training is warranted. The high risk category and conditions at Camp Smith dictate the need for continued prevention programs and increased surveillance. The risk of contracting Lyme disease can be minimized by the proper wearing of clothing, avoiding areas known to harbor high tick populations, and the proper use of repellents.