On the recordMay 7, 2018
As May marks Lyme Disease Awareness Month, I rise today to recognize the countless individuals currently living with Lyme and to honor the medical experts and advocates combating this epidemic throughout the Nation. In upstate New York, where I reside, we are aware of the real and continuing threat that Lyme and related tick-borne diseases pose. With an estimated 300,000 new cases each year, the Lyme crisis is spreading. It is found in about half of all U.S. counties and in nearly 80 countries worldwide. Transmitted by tick bites, Lyme disease has no known cure, is difficult to diagnose, and can attack the nervous system, even sometimes leading to death if left untreated. There is no silver bullet to combat this devastating disease, but better public education and more Federal research can lead to significant advancements. The medical and public health communities urge you to check yourself and your loved ones, especially children, each day for ticks and to seek out the best information on best practices for preventing tick bites and Lyme disease. I look forward to continuing to work with members of the upstate New York community, Lyme disease advocates throughout America, and my colleagues here in Congress on both sides of the aisle to increase awareness and to find a cure, finally, for this devastating disease. ____________________
