The Navy Environmental and Preventive Medicine Unit Two (NEPMU-2) visited the John Yeates Middle School as part of the command's outreach program, Oct. 15.

NEPMU-2 entomologists treated students to a live display including a tarantula and ironclad beetles. The visit also featured a collection of preserved arthropods from around the globe.

"It's wonderful watching the children, to see their curious minds at work, asking questions and at times, cringe," said Lt. Alister Bryson, NEPMU-2 entomologist.

The entomologists discussed how insects and arthropods carry disease-causing pathogens and gave tips on how the students can protect themselves. This included preventing mosquito bites and tick bites, the latter which can transmit Lyme disease that is prevalent in the area.

During the visit the students learned about insects and arthropods, along with various career opportunities in the Navy including those found at NEPMU-2. The entomologists entertained the young students with "sea stories", giving them a window into their daily lives.

Entomologists conduct surveillance and control of arthropod threats on ships, shore installations, through local and global collaborations and serve as subject matter experts. Additionally they conduct research and evaluation of products and methodologies.

"It's important to expose the students to the various disciplines in science, letting them know that being a scientist doesn't mean they have to wear a lab coat and work indoors all day long," said Pamela Stark, science instructor at John Yeates Middle School. "It's opportunities like this that showcase how vast the spectrum of science truly is."

The visit to John Yeates Middle School was a continuation of a long standing and vibrant outreach program.

"The program aligns with NEPMU-2's philosophy of volunteerism and community outreach. It provides the opportunity for our sailors to support the Hampton Roads area schools while having positive impact on the next generation of scientists," said Cmdr. Jennifer Espiritu, NEPMU2 officer in charge.

NEPMU-2's program aligns with the CNO's guidance for the "Navy Community Outreach Plan" (NAVADMIN 035/15) which states "Community and public outreach is a crucial activity that reinforces trust and confidence in the Navy and its people, and increases the American public understanding of the Navy". NEPMU-2 actively maintains its outreach program via mentoring programs, presentations and science fair judging.

For more information from NEPMU-2, visit http://www.med.navy.mil/sites/nepmu2/Pages/default.aspx.

For more news from Navy and Marine Corps Public Health Center, visit www.navy.mil/.