Latest news with #RockyMountain
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
‘Perfectly healthy' girl, 4, left paralysed after family camping trip after giant critter feasted on her scalp
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) TAYLOR Justice was 'terrified' when her 'healthy' daughter Madeline Tuckwiller woke up paralysed after a camping trip - all because of a tick. "She couldn't walk and she was crawling on the floor," the 31-year-old mum said. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 Madeline Tuckwiller, 4, with her mum Taylor Justice Credit: Kennedy News 6 The giant tick found feating on Madeline's scalp Credit: Kennedy News 6 Madeline woke up from her family camping trip paralysed Credit: Kennedy News Taylor, from West Virginia, US had taken her four kids on a short camping trip on Sunday May 11 to mark Mother's Day. Five days later, Taylor noticed something was seriously wrong with her four-year-old daughter. Madeline was struggling to move and appeared dazed, unable to get herself off the ground. Taylor rushed her to hospital where medics began running a series of tests and scans but they couldn't figure out what was causing the paralysis. She was then transferred to a specialist children's hospital three hours away, where her condition seemed to be getting worse. 'The paralysis affected her whole body,' Taylor said. 'It started from the bottom and was working its way up. She couldn't sit up and wasn't even making eye contact.' Doctors monitored Madeline closely overnight. By the next morning, she had lost function in her hands. It was only when a neurologist asked about the family's outdoor activities that he decided to examine her scalp. They found a dime-sized female Rocky Mountain wood tick hidden in her hair, latched onto her skin and feeding. Justin Bieber discusses his battle with Lyme disease and how it has affected him It had been releasing a neurotoxin into Madeline's bloodstream, triggering a rare condition called tick paralysis. The tick was carefully removed, and within hours, Madeline's mobility began to return. 'She was able to walk again about four hours later,' Taylor said. 'It was such a relief.' Ticks can hide anywhere and the earlier you catch it, the bette Taylor Justice The youngster was also given antibiotics to lower the risk of Lyme disease, which ticks can carry and which can cause long-term complications if not treated early. Taylor, a salon owner, said she had never heard of tick paralysis before. 'It's frightening how something so small can do that kind of damage,' she said. 'I'll be so much more careful now.' 6 Madeline was struggling to move and appeared dazed, unable to get herself off the ground Credit: Kennedy News 6 The fateful family camping trip Credit: Kennedy News Madeline has started to recover but still wakes up with some stiffness in her legs in the mornings. Thankfully, she's regained full movement during the day and is back to her usual self. How to prevent tick bites - and remove the bugs There are a few things you can do to lessen your likelihood of tick bites. Firstly, try and cover as much of your skin as possible while walking outdoors and tuck your trousers into your socks. You should also be using insect repellent containing DEET on your clothes and skin, and wearing light coloured clothing so you can spot a tick easily. Also stick to paths where possible when you're out walking. How can I remove a tick safely? To remove a tick safely: Use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick-removal tool. You can buy these from some pharmacies, vets and pet shops. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible. Slowly pull upwards, taking care not to squeeze or crush the tick. Dispose of it when you have removed it. Clean the bite with antiseptic or soap and water. The chance of getting ill is low. You do not need to do anything else unless you notice a rash or become unwell. If either of these happen, make sure to see a GP so you can get treatment as soon a possible. Taylor says the experience has changed the way she thinks about outdoor safety. She now checks all her children thoroughly after time outside and keeps tick repellent in her bag at all times. 'Parents need to know about this,' she said. 'Check their heads, their hairlines, behind their ears, waistbands, even their socks. "Ticks can hide anywhere and the earlier you catch it, the better.'
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Deer ticks have arrived in Montana
May 23—Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPPHS) officials are alerting the public about the recent identification of a tick new to Montana known as Ixodes scapularis, commonly referred to as a "deer tick" or "blacklegged tick". State health officials report that in the past year three blacklegged ticks were identified in the state for the first time through active surveillance conducted by researchers and public health officials. The ticks were found in Dawson and Sheridan counties. Blacklegged ticks are much smaller and darker in color than most other ticks in Montana that might feed on humans. The presence of blacklegged ticks in Montana may increase the risk of exposure to new tickborne illnesses in the state. "Not all types of ticks carry all tickborne illnesses," said Devon Cozart, DPHHS Vectorborne Disease Epidemiologist. "The presence of this new type of tick in the state could mean that Montanans have an increased risk of exposure to diseases that weren't previously a threat in Montana." Blacklegged ticks are extremely common in Northeastern United States. Recently, these ticks have steadily expanded into other states. Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, Powassan virus, hard tick relapsing fever, and babesiosis are examples of diseases known to be transmitted by the bite of a blacklegged tick. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 70% of those bitten by a deer tick and then diagnosed with Lyme disease will have a bull's-eye rash in the area of the tick bite. One tick collected in Dawson County was confirmed to be a blacklegged tick by Rocky Mountain Laboratories in 2024. DPHHS, along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), confirmed in the fall of 2024 that two ticks found in Sheridan County were blacklegged ticks. These two ticks were tested by CDC and no pathogens that can cause illness in humans were detected, including Lyme disease. Currently, there is no known increased risk in Montana for Lyme disease, or other pathogens transmitted by blacklegged ticks. However, the risk of encountering a blacklegged tick may be higher in Dawson and Sheridan counties. Public health officials are conducting further investigation to determine whether these ticks are found elsewhere in Montana and whether they are establishing their habitat in the state. DPHHS will continue to monitor tick activity in select locations throughout the state and will adjust guidance as needed if blacklegged ticks become established. "Currently, tick experts do not think that the blacklegged tick is present throughout Montana," Cozart said. "These ticks could have been carried into the state by a host animal, or they could be active and reproducing here — we just don't know yet. We will be conducting further investigations this spring." The tick species most common in Montana at this time include the Rocky Mountain wood tick and the American dog tick. These ticks can spread diseases such as tularemia, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Colorado tick fever. This spring, DPHHS is launching a citizen scientist program and is requesting the public's help in tick surveillance, especially in Dawson and Sheridan counties. Anyone who thinks they have found a blacklegged tick is encouraged to fill out an online form at is also on the DPHHS website and includes instructions on how to submit the tick for identification. Cozart states the best way to reduce your chance of developing an illness from a tick bite is to reduce your contact with ticks. "Preventing tick bites is important while spending time outdoors, especially when walking through brushy or wooded areas," she said. "Though tick activity slows during winter months, ticks can be active any time temperatures are above freezing. Any outdoor activity in any season that disturbs leaf brush (such as yard work or hiking) or contact with other animals (such as hunting) increases the risk of encountering a tick." To prevent tick bites, follow these tips: — Wear an EPA registered insect repellent ( — Treat clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin — Check for ticks often and carry a tick removal device such as tweezers — Shower soon after being outdoors — Put clothing in the dryer for 10 minutes after being outdoors to kill ticks — Check pets regularly for ticks and talk to a veterinarian about tick prevention products "If you find a tick, remove it safely and quickly," Cozart added. "The less time a tick is attached, the less likely you are to develop an illness. If you have been bitten by a tick and start to feel sick with symptoms including fever, rash, body aches, and headaches, talk to your health care provider and let them know about your tick encounter." For more information about ticks and tickborne diseases, please visit: About Ticks and Tickborne Disease — Ticks — CDC.
CBS News
22-05-2025
- General
- CBS News
Authorities identify victims killed in plane crash near Colorado airport
Two killed in Broomfield plane crash identified as 80-year-old and 74-year-old Two killed in Broomfield plane crash identified as 80-year-old and 74-year-old Two killed in Broomfield plane crash identified as 80-year-old and 74-year-old Two people killed in a plane crash near a Colorado airport last weekend have been identified. The Beechcraft 95 crashed shortly after takeoff from the Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport in Broomfield on Saturday Authorities said the pilot told the tower they would need to land the aircraft and that the door to the aircraft was open. The tower permitted them to land, but the pilot didn't answer. CBS According to North Metro Fire Rescue, the plane caught fire when it crashed. There were no survivors. The Boulder County Coroner has identified the victims as 80-year-old Eugene Knutson and 74-year-old James Gelaude.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Cow farmers sound the alarm over invisible threat destroying livelihoods across the US: 'Killing our farm'
This tiny bug is wreaking havoc on farmers' lives. A meat allergy is preventing farmers from properly tending to their livestock. Alpha-gal syndrome is an allergic reaction to galactose-α-1,3-galactose, or alpha-gal. Alpha-gal is found in the meat of mammals, such as beef and pork, as well as their dairy products. The allergy is onset through tick bites, primarily the lone star tick, though other tick species have been found to carry AGS. A single tick bite can cause serious symptoms, "including hives, rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, or life-threatening anaphylaxis," according to Some people with alpha-gal syndrome can't even go near livestock without suffering allergic reactions. Missouri farmer Jenna Olcott "can no longer help with farm chores due to coughing, itching, and watering eyes. She can't even ride in a car with her husband when he has manure on his boots," per LymeDisease. Tick populations are increasing, and warmer weather due to the changing climate is likely to blame. Several studies show "climate change has contributed to the expanded range of ticks … such as in areas of Canada where the ticks were previously unable to survive," according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. More ticks means higher risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and AGS. For farmers, this could be especially disastrous. "Alpha gal is killing our farm," Antonia Florence wrote, per LymeDisease. "To be more precise, the alpha gal allergy my husband, Bruce … contracted through lone star tick bites caused him to become allergic to the very cattle we raise." The only way to prevent AGS is to avoid ticks. Ticks live in thick brush and wooded areas and are active in warmer months. Many farmers are taking extra precautions when caring for livestock, wearing gloves and respirators. Pants, long-sleeved shirts, high socks, and boots can help, too. Clothing can also be treated with insect repellent such as lemon eucalyptus oil or permethrin. Do you worry about having toxic forever chemicals in your home? Majorly Sometimes Not really I don't know enough about them Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. If you've been bitten by a tick, remove it and notify your health care provider if you notice a rash, pain, or symptoms similar to those of the flu. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Yahoo
13-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Why are the Colorado Rockies so bad? And is there any hope of them getting better?
On May 14, 2023, Phillies superstar Bryce Harper took aim at the Colorado Rockies. The two-time MVP's ruthless critique didn't come during a news conference or an interview. It happened right there, on the Coors Field dirt. After Rockies reliever Jake Bird barked at the Phillies dugout following a scoreless inning, Harper charged onto the diamond to confront him. The benches cleared. Cusses were hurled. And though no punches were thrown, a hold-me-back-style stand-off unfolded. As the dust settled and cooler heads prevailed, a perturbed Harper gestured toward the Rockies and delivered a piercing parting shot. 'You're a loser f***ing organization,' he proclaimed. 'Every single one of you.' Harsh? Yes. Crude? Absolutely. But Harper's outburst reflected a grim reality, one acknowledged and understood by players, coaches and officials around the league: The Colorado Rockies, as an organization, are utterly clueless. Two years on from Harper's verbal cannon blast, baseball's most geographically isolated franchise is in an even uglier place. The 2025 club is currently 7-33, tied for the second-worst 40-game start in MLB history. On Sunday, Colorado made an inevitable managerial change, canning skipper Bud Black, who had helmed the purple-and-black since 2016. Third-base coach Warren Schaeffer, a 40-year-old Rockies lifer who has been with the organization since it drafted him in 2007, was named interim manager through the end of this season. But the problems, piled high above sea level, won't be remedied with a single move. Colorado hasn't finished a season above .500 since 2018, their last playoff appearance. The Rockies own the league's worst record since 2019. The team's most recent (non-one-game wild card) postseason series win? The 2007 NLCS. On pace for a 28-win season, this year's Rockies are a train wreck, a punch line, a dinosaur. Injuries to key offensive contributors such as Ezequiel Tovar, Kris Bryant and Thairo Estrada have played a major role, but the Rockies can be banged up and bad at hitting simultaneously. Only three of their hitters — Hunter Goodman, Jordan Beck and Ryan McMahon — have performed at a league-average level or above. Every other bat in the lineup has been downright dreadful. Colorado is second-to-last in baseball in runs scored, despite getting to play half their games in an extremely hitter-friendly home park. And somehow, the future looks even bleaker than the past or present. So how did it get this bad? What in the mile-high hell happened here? Why are the 2025 Rockies in serious danger of surpassing the 2024 White Sox as the worst team in MLB history? The Rocky Mountain horror show, more than anything else, is the result of organizational inertia. General manager Bill Schmidt has been with the team since 1999. Rolando Fernandez, the vice president of international scouting and development, joined the Rockies as a coach in 1993. Danny Montgomery, vice president and assistant general manager of scouting, was an original Rockies employee, hired in November 1991, a year and a half before the team played a game. Scouting director Marc Gustafson and major-league operations director Paul Egins have also been with the Rockies since '91. Colorado's insular environment is unlike anything else in professional baseball. A form of blind loyalty — driven, sources say, by team owner Dick Monfort — has left most of the organization stuck in the 2010s. As a paradigm-shifting technological revolution swept baseball over the past decade, the Rockies simply failed to adapt, leaving them woefully behind the times. They are, for instance, the only MLB team without an internal pitch-grading system or proprietary stuff-plus model. Many teams have struggled to keep pace in baseball's information arms race. But what's happening in Colorado is even worse. For the Rockies, it's not about inability; it's about unwillingness. Schmidt pushed back against that sentiment in a recent interview with The Athletic. 'People talk about us being isolated. That's fine," he said. 'I wouldn't say we're behind the times by any means.' But the facts tell a different story. As clubs such as the Dodgers, Yankees, Rays and Brewers have searched relentlessly for the next frontier, the Rockies have become the baseball equivalent of Colonial Williamsburg: a living museum, fixed in time, clinging proudly to the past. 'My favorite part of it is they think they are doing a good job,' one MLB evaluator, granted anonymity in exchange for honesty, told Yahoo Sports. 'They question everyone else doing things differently.' This isn't to say the Rockies don't draft talented players. In fact, their amateur scouting department is relatively well-respected within the industry. However, the club has struggled mightily in recent years to develop youngsters into impact big leaguers. While teams such as the Mets, Mariners and Guardians are respected for getting the most out of their pitchers, the Rockies have acquired a polar opposite reputation. Their big-league players rarely get better. And while the Rockies have often maintained a respectable payroll, Monfort has consistently balked at making financial investments in the organization's infrastructure. That has been most impactful in terms of technology, where the Rockies lag far behind the 29 other clubs. In fact, sources indicated to Yahoo that Monfort — who chaired the owners committee during the 2022 CBA negotiations — is hoping the next CBA contains a salary cap, which he believes would give his fallen franchise a better chance. Importantly, Monfort is reportedly seeking a cap that extends beyond MLB payroll to cover all organizational spending, including coaching, technology and scouting. When you check the attendance numbers, Colorado's resistance to change makes some sense. The Rockies draw. Coors Field is a beautiful park right in the center of Denver. The views are stellar, the beer is cold, and the weather is usually lovely. Because the yard stays full even though the team stinks, there's much less pressure on Monfort and Co. to change their behavior. And to be fair, Monfort, Schmidt and the Rockies face a unique and persistent challenge that no other MLB team contends with: altitude. The thin air in Colorado impacts almost everything — how pitches move, how batted balls carry, how players recover. It's a singular conundrum, yes, and one this Rockies leadership group has repeatedly proven incapable of solving. Coors Field is a dreadful place to pitch, yet visiting hurlers have a combined ERA nearly a half-run lower than that of the home team's pitchers since the park opened in 1995. Where things go from here is anyone's guess. Most public outlets rank the Rockies' farm system in the bottom third in MLB. And Colorado rarely deals valuable big leaguers for prospects at the trade deadline. Oft-injured superstar Kris Bryant is under contract at $27 million per year through the end of 2028. Shortstop Ezequiel Tovar, center fielder Brenton Doyle, outfielder Jordan Beck and catcher Hunter Goodman could form the core of a compelling offense. Top prospect Chase Dollander has been awful in his first taste of the bigs (28 innings of 7.71 ERA ball) but remains a massive talent. Perhaps more critically, faith in this operation around baseball remains at an all-time low — for good reason. The 2025 Rockies might or might not lose a record number of games, but if the organization continues to refuse to adapt, the 2026 Rockies or the 2027 Rockies certainly could. Even worse: This isn't a rebuild. Or a retool. The 2024 White Sox were that, a roster ripped up from the studs. All their losing, at least in theory, had a purpose. These Rockies can claim no such rose-colored future. They are a hamster on a wheel, a relic frozen in the ice, a franchise trapped in the thin air gasping for answers that don't exist.
