Those Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer

When I was a youngster, summer vacation meant fun, sun, and going ‘down the shore’. Sleeping late and loafing around were commonplace. Some of my best August memories include playing outside until the lightning bugs came out, drinking water from a garden hose, smelling freshly cut grass, walking on the beach, eating hot dogs, hamburgers, and ice cream. This August is best enjoyed by keeping cool, staying hydrated, and enjoying seasonal/home grown delicacies. Many people enjoy outdoor entertainment (e.g., concerts in the park) and/or scenic trips. Maybe make ice cream at home or frozen (non-alcoholic) drinks and set up a backyard movie night with a projector, blankets and snacks. I actually have a projector for this purpose, which I intend to use this Summer.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the nation’s largest multistate outbreak of cyclosporiasis linked to shredded iceberg lettuce has expanded to nine states. The four newly linked states — Illinois, Kansas, Oklahoma and Pennsylvania- join Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia and hard-hit Michigan. Cyclospora is a microscopic parasite that typically infects people through contaminated food or water and causes cyclosporiasis, a gastrointestinal illness that can result in multiple symptoms including severe diarrhea. Patients can require hospitalization, but as of this writing, no deaths have been recorded related to this disease in 2026. The outbreak is already the largest of cyclosporiasis reported in the U.S. this year, with thousands of illnesses recorded nationwide. That is well above the roughly 200 to 1,000 cases reported annually.

Other significant health issues this summer include heat-related illnesses, tick-borne (e.g., Lyme disease) and mosquito-borne (e.g., West Nile virus) illnesses, a seasonal increase in COVID-19 cases, and a significant measles outbreak (over 2,300 confirmed cases reported, surpassing the previous year's total). The CDC has noted that the ongoing summer travel season is contributing to the spread of measles. High temperatures across the US are driving severe heat illnesses. Heat temperatures over 103°F increase risks for dehydration, confusion, and body system strain.

Emergency rooms have reported cases of severe sunburns, in addition to grill and campfire burn injuries. Managing these risks requires proper hydration, monitoring environmental triggers, and practicing skin protection. Drink plenty of fluids before and during outdoor activities, and avoid alcohol or heavy caffeine. Rest in air-conditioned spaces during peak heat waves and limit vigorous exercise to early mornings or evenings. Use broad-spectrum sunscreens and insect repellents, and wear light, loose clothing. Take breaks during the hottest part of the day instead of rushing through chores. Enjoy quiet moments on the porch or in the shade. If you are spending time outdoors at dusk or in wooded areas, be sure to use an EPA-registered repellent.

Supporting individuals experiencing homelessness during the summer requires practical steps to mitigate the dangerous health impacts of extreme heat. Prioritizing hydration and cooling resources are the most direct way to save lives when temperatures reach life-threatening levels. Providing direct aid during heat waves helps these people survive when they lack access to air conditioning or safe shelter. Small acts of kindness such as sharing supplies or checking in on someone can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related emergencies. Conducting wellness checks allows street outreach providers to monitor for signs of heat exhaustion, such as rapid heart rate, muscle cramps, or nausea. Maintaining kindness levels when offering water or assistance is essential, as some individuals may reject help for reasons that are not always visible (e.g., PTSD, mental health issues, etc.).

Summertime in August can be a very sentimental month. As the days grow shorter and the warmth begins to fade, recollections of happy moments remain, as we appreciate summer's final days. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, protect your skin, look out for your neighbors, and sleep well.

Make great memories and have a great summer!

The natural healing force within each one of us is the greatest force in getting well. – Hippocrates                                                                                                            

James McGuinness, M.D., is a family physician in Middletown and is the Medical Director Emeritus at the Parker Family Health Center in Red Bank