Senator Charles Schumer Calls For Tick Related Research

LongIsland.com

Senator Charles Schumer is calling for a Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Prevention, Education, and Research Act. This would widen research on any tick related diseases.

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As the summer days dwindle down we enter the peak of Lyme disease season. It’s because of this Senator Charles Schumer urges the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to study the tiny arachnid’s infectious bite. According to the Senator, there have been two cases of Lyme disease already in New York that he wants the CDC to look into.
 
Ticks don’t just carry Lyme disease. They can also transfer diseases like Babesiosis, Powassan virus, and Borrelia Miyamoti. All are easily treatable but can lead to severe ailments if one receives no medical attention.
 
“Now, with the emerging threat of newer tick-borne illnesses like Powassan virus and antibiotic-resistant strains of Lyme, the need for more research is clear and compelling," the Senator said in a press release earlier in the week. "We need to bring Lyme disease and the Powassan virus out of the weeds and better educate the public about how to keep themselves and their families’ safe."
 
This potential Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Prevention, Education, and Research Act would expand the federal government’s ability to contain any tick related diseases. Schumer says the bill widens research and makes it a necessity for the Secretary of Health and Human Services to create a report that educates doctors and health professionals on the latest treatment for these diseases.
 
In order to avoid tick-borne diseases, the CDC says to avoid wooded and brushy areas and to walk in the center of paths. When you get home immediately shower to wash off and remove any hidden ticks. Full body tick checks should be done with a full-length mirror so you can view all parts of your body. The CDC says the best bug repellent for ticks are ones with 20-30% DEET.
 
The CDC also advices you should be checking your pets daily for ticks if they spend time outdoors. The best pesticide for dogs is Acaricides.
 
[Source: CBS, CDC, Charles Schumer]