POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. … As tick populations continue to grow throughout New York State and tickborne illnesses remain a concern for families, outdoor enthusiasts, pet owners and visitors, Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino today announced she has established her Dutchess County Tick Task Force, a new advisory panel dedicated to increasing public awareness, strengthening prevention efforts, and advancing science‑based and practical strategies to keep our neighbors safe.
Tickborne disease extends far beyond Lyme disease. Dutchess County regularly sees cases of babesiosis, anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis, among others. Last year, there was death relating to Powassan virus, with another recent case confirmed this year by the Dutchess County Department of Health. Powassan virus, while relatively rare, is a potentially serious tick-borne disease that can cause symptoms ranging from a mild flu-like illness to life-threatening neurological disease. Since 2012, there have been 14 confirmed Powassan cases in Dutchess County.
Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino said, “Tick‑borne disease is a real and growing threat in Dutchess County, and we cannot afford to be complacent. Too many families have been impacted by tick-borne disease, and it is so important that our neighbors understand how serious these diseases can be. By bringing together experts, advocates, and everyday residents, this Task Force will help us strengthen awareness, improve prevention, and protect our community. Everyone deserves to feel safe enjoying the outdoors, and this effort is about making that a reality."
The task force will bring together residents, local organizations, healthcare professionals, educators, environmental experts and others to serve in an advisory role to the County Executive. They will explore topics such as public awareness and education, prevention strategies, community outreach and partnerships with local organizations as well as opportunities to improve local awareness of the various tickborne illnesses. Members will also lobby New York State for renewed focus on tick-borne disease.
Several prominent local experts and advocates about tick-borne disease have already agreed to participate on Serino’s Tick Task Force including:
Former Dutchess County Legislator Donna Bolner will serve as Chair for this new task force. Bolner formerly served on the Legislature’s Deer Tick Contral Task Force for 16 years, including 14 years as Chair.
Ms. Bolner said, “The Hudson Valley may not regularly experience tornadoes, earthquakes or hurricanes, but tickborne disease is our natural disaster. Fighting tickborne disease is imperative because it impacts all Hudson valley residents in some form or fashion. The best defense against tickborne disease is an excellent offense, which is why education and research is vital to protecting residents.”
Sue Serino has been a longtime advocate for tick awareness and disease prevention. When she served in the New York State Senate, she chaired the Senate Task Force on Lyme and Tick-Borne Diseases, where she raised awareness, supported tick prevention efforts, and secured more than $2.5 million for tick-related programs and educational resources for families. As Dutchess County Executive, she has continued that advocacy with Tick Safety signage at all County Parks, her annual “Tackling Ticks on the Big Screen” movie events and distributing tick removal kits and other educational materials at Health Department outreach events including its Mobile Health Unit, among other efforts.
Serino noted, “My family has been impacted by Lyme Disease, and I have long been passionate about tick bite prevention – earning me the nickname the ‘Tick Lady’ when I talk to students. It is a title I am proud of and I am excited to be working with others who are equally passionate about tick disease prevention.”
Community members with an interest in public health, environmental conservation, education or advocacy are encouraged to apply. No specialized experience is required, and residents with a personal interest in the issue are also welcome. Those interested in serving on the Dutchess County Tick Task Force can complete an online application at dutchessny.gov/tick-application.
The Dutchess County Department of Health offers additional information about ticks, tickborne illnesses and steps to reduce residents’ risk of being bitten by ticks at dutchessny.gov/ticks.
