The Silent Epidemic: Why Lyme Disease Prevention and Education Matter Now More Than Ever and How New York Can Lead That Effort
As the days grow warmer and millions of Americans head outdoors, a silent and growing health threat waits at our backyard barbecues, our parks, on the golf courses, campgrounds and hiking trails, indeed, every place and activity that is a staple of the classic American summer – Lyme disease. Once thought to be only a regional concern, Lyme disease has rapidly become a nationwide public health issue—one that demands awareness and urgent action.
Why are the two of us writing this? Well, one of us, Olivia, struggled with Lyme after being bitten at 7-years-old and spending summers in the gorgeous and rural Hudson Valley. The other, Assemblymember Didi Barrett, has represented that same rural and gorgeous Hudson Valley since 2012, and has seen firsthand the devastating impact of Lyme disease throughout her district – including the office dog who was recently diagnosed with it. This month, we joined forces to hold Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Awareness Day at the New York State Capitol, where educators and advocates from across the state came to share information and resources with legislators, agencies and staff.
Lyme disease is caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium, transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. Early signs may include fever, fatigue, and the hallmark “bullseye” rash like in Olivia’s case—but if left untreated, Lyme can lead to serious, long-term complications such as neurological disorders, arthritis, and heart problems.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are more than 500,000 Americans diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year, a number that is likely higher because many cases are often undiagnosed or misdiagnosed because symptoms are incredibly challenging to spot and there is a lack of testing.
The rise in cases can be attributed to multiple factors, including expanding tick habitats because of climate change and warmer temperatures, increased development near wooded areas, and a lack of public awareness. That is why we have come together to talk tough on ticks through education and prevention.
With uncertainties about healthcare at the federal level, it is more critical than ever for states to step up. Some already have. Pennsylvania, which toggles back and forth with New York for the most cases of Lyme in the country, recently passed legislation to support Lyme education in public schools. Massachusetts has allocated funding to local health boards to focus on education and prevention. Connecticut, the state where Lyme disease was first identified, funds tick testing services and engages in extensive public outreach in schools and parks across the state.
Here in New York, Assemblymember Barrett has been an outspoken advocate in the Legislature and in the community for combating Lyme and other tick-borne illnesses. In 2014, she passed groundbreaking legislation to ensure doctors wouldn’t be punished for pursuing effective alternative treatments for tick-borne illnesses. And in 2018, she
launched the #GetTickedOff campaign, an advocacy and outreach effort that has hosted educational forums across her district to educate Hudson Valley residents about the dangers of these diseases. In addition Barrett has passed bills to increase awareness about ticks, including requiring Lyme and tick-borne disease warning signs at New York State-operated parks across the state. She has also sponsored legislation that would require insurance coverage for Lyme Disease treatment, and a bill that would ensure worker’s compensation benefits for Lyme Disease. Together, we recently introduced legislation to develop instructional tools and materials for industries at high risk for occupational tick exposures including, but not limited to, agriculture, landscaping, road crew work and forestry, among others. These are sectors that keep New York moving, and we need to make sure they are protected from the increased risk of a tick bite.
With no cure for Lyme, providing access to education and prevention materials for those working in the great outdoors is the best defense against Lyme. Tick populations continue to grow, and remain active for longer periods of the year because of climate change. Making these materials available throughout the state and educating people about the best practices to prevent tick exposure, is an important step towards addressing this alarming trend.
Lyme disease may not generate eye popping headlines but its growing impact on individuals and families is profound. We have seen it, lived it, and are now trying to prevent it. As scientists work on better testing and treatments, the short-term solution lies in awareness and prevention. Time is ticking and together, we can make lemons out of Lyme.
Olivia Abrams, Board Member – Project Lyme and New York State Assemblymember Didi Barrett – District 106 (Hudson Valley)
