Ticks Become Crisis In Our Region

While bees may be threatened, the tick population is not only growing, but exploding across the North Country and Adirondacks. Ticks are a worry not only because they spread Lyme Disease, but they can also carry several other diseases and viruses that can be dangerous, or even deadly.
This week we talk with three expert who are tracking the spread of ticks and tick-borne illnesses, and raising awareness among people and the medical community about the increased threat.

Essex County Health Department held a community forum on the tick crisis in late June at the Whallonsburg Grange Hall with Paul Smith’s Biologist Dr. Lee Ann Sporn and CVPH Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Keith Collins. They will host another forum on September 11, 2019 at the Best Western Ticonderoga Inn in Ticonderoga, NY from 7-9pm.

More info: www.co.essex.ny.us/Health
www.facebook.com/EssexCountyPublicHealth

  1. I am glad to see assemblies like this taking place in the Adirondack area. Be proactive and don’t let the ticks get out of control. Ticks and tick-borne illness are real threats and should be handled as such. I am in Connecticut, ground zero for ticks and Lyme disease, and our communities are continually taking preventative measures to reduce the risks of tick-borne illness. Prevention has simply become a necessary and accepted expense in pursuing a healthy life. Still, I cannot tell you how many adults and children I know who have been affected by Lyme disease. It can be devastating. Remember, prevention only works before you get sick. Do not wait until it is too late. Even worse, the Powassan virus is moving closer to our area.

    Luckily, there are products (pyrethroids) available that can be used to treat populated areas. They do a great job at keeping dangerous ticks away from pets and humans. The best part about them is that they are very safe and very effective when used properly. That said, great care needs to be taken to protect the honey bees. Proper operator/applicator training can be the key to the successful reduction of ticks without reducing the honey bees.

    Best of luck to you!

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