Re: [Butler Island] State of Lyme Disease on Island

["Dylan McNamara" <dnmcnama@xxxxxxxxx>]

Guinea Hens

This may be the answer as they feed on ticks!

Dylan McNamara, Ph.D.
Nationally Certified School Psychologist
Director of School Psychological Services
Burlington School District
>>> Steve Seremeth <steve@xxxxxxxxxxxx> 04/15/09 9:51 AM >>>
Hi -

Another season is upon us - hurrah!  At least a few camps are already 
open for the season - amazing. 

Anyway, I received a note from Jane Carol Glendinning, President of the 
Providence Island Association.  Apparently Lyme Disease has reached the 
shores of Providence Island (off of S. Hero) and she is researching 
any/all information she can find about Lyme Disease in the islands so 
they can raise awareness.

I believe there were over 25 cases of Lyme on Butler last summer (from 
when I counted around Labor Day).  Has anyone used any commercial 
products to combat the ticks/Lyme and are people generally being 
cognizant to take preventative measures like:

* use DEET
* check for ticks regularly
* tuck pants into socks
* etc.

??

At our camp, we try to keep our lawn mowed and path mowed fairly wide to 
keep the tall grass, where the ticks like to spend time, at bay.

I know the state collected ticks on island a few years ago - anyone know 
if they have been back since and what their findings may have been?

If nothing else it would seem now is another good time to remind people 
to be aware of the threat of contracting Lyme disease on island.

Here is the state's Dept. of Health web page featuring Lyme Disease 
information:
http://healthvermont.gov/prevent/lyme/lyme_disease.aspx

Thanks in advance for sharing any information you may have.

Hope you are well and see you on island!

Steve