Legislature To Declare May As Lyme Disease Awareness Month
Tick Task Force continues effort to inform residents on how to protect themselves from contracting Tick-Borne Diseases

The Dutchess County Legislature will declare the month of May as Lyme Disease Awareness Month.  According to Chairman Robert Rolison (R-Poughkeepsie), “Lyme disease remains one of the most important environmental issues we face in Dutchess County; therefore, continued education, research and prevention are necessary in order that we may develop control measures to reduce the incidences of the disease.

The Tick Task Force, a committee established by the legislature in 2002, continues to provide recommendations to facilitate, guide, and evaluate the development of programs for environmentally responsible tick control.  The committee has also partnered with Dr. Richard Ostfeld of Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies.  Dr. Ostfeld and the task force are involved in various research projects on this important topic. Currently, they are evaluating measuring the influence of publicizing expected peaks in risk and its effect on reducing cases of Lyme disease.

Donna Bolner, Legislator from District 13 and Chairwoman of the Tick Task Force commends the dedicated professionals and knowledgeable persons that lend their time and talent to this serious health issue.  “The participation of members is key to accomplishing our mission.  We encourage individuals to join our Tick Task Force and to share their innovative ideas and insight to further our efforts in tick education and eradication.

Chairman Rolison stated, “Tick-borne diseases can be crippling to both humans and pets.  Thousands of cases are reported in this region every year.  The best defense against Lyme disease relies on the diligence and hard work of the Tick Task Force.  Their continued efforts in education will further protect and limit the prevalence of Lyme disease in our community.

The Tick Task Force encourages those with a background in the medical field or those who are required to be outside on a regular basis (i.e. surveyors, environmental field workers) to consider participating in this important effort.  Interested applicants are asked to contact Catherine Durland at the Dutchess County Legislature by phone at (845) 486-2103 or by email cdurland@dutchessny.gov.