02-09-2012, 08:53 AM
I attended a seminar at UH Hilo in Nov '11. I thought someone summarized it on Puna Web, but can find it. There is a lot of info if you search rat lungworm. I remember all the experts at the seminar would not confirm soaking leafy vegetables in ANYTHING that would ascertain they were safe. I always use a heavy salt solution, which seems to work, but after that seminar I don't eat raw kale anymore, unless I go to "America". I used to get it from Hamakua, but the panel said there was even a case of rat lungworm in Honokaa. As for the friends wanting you to take produce, give them some CDC facts. You are entitled to say no thank you for whatever reason. Because I have a Masters in Public Health, I am much more aware of health issues like tropical diseases and also the Vog issue here; which I also think everyone is in a state of denial about. Don't talk about the Vog monster in the middle of the living room! In spite of all this, I still want to live here rather than anywhere else in the world. It's well worth the extra caution - be safe.