Mastriano Schedules Lyme Disease Town Hall

CHAMBERSBURG – A town hall forum is scheduled by PA Senator Doug Mastriano (R-33) to discuss Lyme disease and efforts to remedy the illness.

The event, dubbed “Dare 2 Be Tick Aware,” is scheduled Thursday, Sept. 19, from 6:30-8:30pm at Chambersburg Area Middle School North, 1957 Scotland Avenue, Chambersburg.

Speakers include experts with experience in prevention and treatment.

“Pennsylvania leads the nation in Lyme disease cases – I would like to reverse that trend,” said Mastriano. “It is absolutely critical to address the increasing rates of Lyme disease, and halt the momentum of this illness.”

State Rep. Rob Kauffman (R-Franklin County) plans to attend as a special guest.

Panelists include Jacquelyn Zulli, certified instructor, Dare 2 Be Tick Aware, Vice President and Director of Legislative Affairs and PA Policy Lyme Resource Network; Renee Sharpe, President of Franklin County Lyme Alliance; Jason Goetz, Franklin County Mosquito & Tick Borne Disease Specialist; and Dr. Robert Mauss, physician.

“It is important as a legislature to do our part in combatting this devastating illness that has adversely impacted thousands of Commonwealth residents,” said Mastriano.

Funding to prevent the spread of Lyme disease was increased as part of the state’s 2019-2020 spending plan. The $3 million line item will support awareness, prevention and surveillance associated with the tick-borne illness.

The legislature’s funding of Lyme disease programming represents a 20 percent increase. Additional funding will be used for tick testing, according to the Department of Health.

Overall, funding will be allocated toward the state’s existing Lyme disease prevention and education initiative, statewide environmental surveys and surveillance.

A study conducted by the PA Dept. of Environmental Protection found the presence of Lyme in ticks in all 67 counties.

CONTACT: Scot Pitzer (717) 787-4651, spitzer@pasen.gov

Back to Top