Success Story2024 New Agent Training on Delusory Parasitosis



2024 New Agent Training on Delusory Parasitosis

Author: Jonathan Larson

Planning Unit: Entomology

Major Program: Integrated Pest Management

Outcome: Initial Outcome

Extension offices and their personnel are often sought out for help in dealing with arthropod pest issues. In many cases, the problem and solution are straightforward, where the pest is identified, and appropriate control measures are recommended.  Unfortunately, there are also many instances where extension professionals are confronted with clients who believe they are infested with insects or mites, despite no supporting evidence. This situation can be extremely emotional for the client and distressing to the extension professional attempting to help. Rarely are new Extension agents prepared to deal with these folks. I built a KERS class, advertised explicitly for new employees, that explored invisible itches and their possible causes, and equipped 41 attendees with knowledge on how to best help the sufferer while also protecting themselves.






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