Officials urge vigilance in wake of Powassan death

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Ticks are the primary transmission mode for Lyme and Powassan

KINGSTON – Ulster County Executive Patrick Ryan has directed Health Commissioner Dr. Carol Smith and county departments “to take every step necessary to help prevent the spread of tick-borne diseases including the implementation of an expanded public awareness campaign.”

Ryan’s order comes following the death of a Gardiner resident from Powassan, a tick-borne virus spread by infected deer ticks.

“Although exceedingly rare, the Powassan virus and other tick-borne diseases are a serious threat and I encourage everyone to be extra vigilant when taking part in outdoor activities,” Ryan said.

State Senator Susan Serino (R, Hyde Park), a leader in the fight against tick-borne diseases, said, “Ticks are out in full force and it is important to always do a tick check on yourself, your loved ones and your pets each time you come inside after spending any amount of time outdoors.”

Serino, who was a member of the Senate majority until this year, was critical of the Democratic leadership in Albany.

“After fighting for years to make combating Lyme and tick-borne diseases a priority in the eyes of the state, there has been a noticeable backslide in Albany this year, as evidenced by the cut in critically important funding for research, education and prevention.” She said tick-borne diseases “clearly present a very real and persistent threat to public health and safety. Now, more than ever, we should be doubling down on our efforts to combat these devastating diseases and I will continue to fight to ensure that the state makes this issue a top priority.”




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