UNITED STATES / ENERGY RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION PAC.FIC AREA SUPPORT GFF TE ENEWETAK ATOLL, Mi. S6737 17 June AOOB} ae Bee 1977 Bria. General Thomas E. Field Command, DNA Lacy, Commander Dear General Lacy: Upon reviewing with the Enewetak Chief Medical Officer (Lt. Col. Thorpe) the medical examination records of certain TTPI employees, I am concerned about these employees as potential vectors for parasite infestation of U. S. personnel. According to Dr. are reported in Thorpe, a number of parasite strains the records of examination, and he has learned that this problem is prevalent in the Marshails. One specific strain is said to be common in the population. Dr. Thorpe indicates that in aU. S. population the presence of these parasites would be expected to be accompanied by clinical symptoms (apparently absent among the emplovee candidates). This suggests a resistance or immunity which we do not enjoy. Because of the rarity of certain of these parasites in the U. S. population, Dr. Thorpe acknowledges littie more than a textbook acquaintance with their control and management. In response to my direct question, he indicated that he would be more comfortable with the advice of a trained parasitologist or specialist in tropical medicine. Such specialized competence is known to be available at Tripler Army Hospital and, perhaps, elsewhere in the military complex in Hawaii. Although I certainly see no reason for alarm, I strongly urge that arrangements be made for a suitably qualified professional to review this health and welfare matter while the numbers are still small and the problem is only potential. (continued Page 2) ,by > eniCAa, NN AN? ¢ aN TG 6 yorUT1On, 77g .491e .