Lyme Disease forum slated for October 4th in Glens Falls

Area lawmakers to participate in panel discussion of diagnosis, treatment and new research

Senator Betty Little, Assemblyman Dan Stec and Assemblyman Tony Jordan will co-host a public forum to raise awareness of Lyme disease on Friday, October 4, 10 am to noon, at the Crandall Public Library in Glens Falls.

The state legislators will be joined by Congressman Bill Owens and a panel of experts to discuss Lyme disease prevention, diagnosis, treatment and research being undertaken at the world-renowned Trudeau Institute in Saranac Lake.

The panelists include Holly Ahern, a SUNY Adirondack Associate Professor of Microbiology; Dr. Bryon Backenson, New York State Department of Health, Director of Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, Epidemiologist and Research Scientist; and Dr. Timothy Sellati, a Trudeau Institute immunologist.

Lyme disease is a tick-borne infectious illness prevalent in the northeastern United States.  Fever, headache, fatigue, depression, and a characteristic circular skin rash, are common symptoms. Left untreated, symptoms may involve the joints, heart, and central nervous system.  Antibiotics are typically used to treat an infection.  More serious symptoms can develop if treatment is inadequate or delayed. 

The event is open to the public.  There is no need to RSVP and seating will be based on a first-come, first-served basis.

                                                                                           -30-