County Urges Caution On Lyme Disease

Rensselaer County Executive Kathleen M. Jimino is urging residents to take proper precautions in order to defend themselves from exposure to Lyme disease. Last year their were 542 probable or confirmed cases of the disease in Rensselaer County.
“As we all spend much more time outdoors with the warmer weather we want residents to be aware of the serious health concerns that can stem from tick bites and use caution to help prevent them or limit any negative health effects from a tick bite,” said County Executive Jimino.
To help raise awareness to the dangers of Lyme Disease the County is posting signs in areas that draw individuals participating in activities that would potentially increase their exposure to tick borne illnesses. Those areas include the Dyken Pond Environmental Center as well as local summer camps. The Environmental Management Council has also been provided with the signs for their posting at various locations throughout the County.
Tips on how to avoid tick bites include:
• Wear light colored clothing and tuck trousers cuffs into socks.
• Consider the use of insect repellents; follow label direction.
• Examine clothing and skin frequently for ticks.
• Carefully remove attached ticks immediately,
• Pet owners should also check their pets for ticks.
For more information on Lyme disease please contact the County Health Department at 518-270-2655 or visit their web page under Public Health at www.rensco.com.