Spring Valley, NY – As the summer season brings more outdoor activities, Senator Bill Weber is taking action to address a growing health concern in the region: Lyme disease and tick-borne illnesses. In response to an uptick in local cases and requests from concerned constituents, Senator Weber will host a Lyme Disease Awareness & Tick Prevention Forum on Monday, July 22, 2025, at 4:00 PM at the Finkelstein Memorial Library in Spring Valley.
The forum aims to equip parents, camp counselors, and the general public with vital information about preventing tick bites and recognizing the signs of Lyme disease. Experts will provide attendees with up-to-date data, best practices, and practical tools to protect families and children from tick-related health risks.
The event will feature a lineup of distinguished speakers, including
- Dr. Azfar Chak, Chief of Infectious Diseases at Montefiore Nyack, who will offer insights on Lyme disease symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Juliette Content, Public Health Education Specialist at the Rockland County Department of Health, who will discuss local efforts and educational resources for preventing tick-borne illnesses.
- Kristen Ossmann, Horticulture Educator at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Rockland County, who will share tips on reducing tick habitats and making outdoor spaces safer.
Free Tools and Resources for Attendees
As part of the event, attendees will receive free tick removal tools and tick combs courtesy of Weber. These tools will help community members respond to tick bites effectively. Additionally, educational brochures on Lyme disease and children’s activity books will be available to reinforce key prevention strategies.
“Ticks are a growing concern in our area, especially with the increase in outdoor activities during the summer,” said Weber. “It’s crucial that we provide the community with the knowledge and resources they need to protect themselves, their families, and children in particular.”
With summer camps in full swing and outdoor adventures at their peak, the timing of this forum couldn’t be more critical. Lyme disease, transmitted by ticks, can have serious long-term health effects if not caught early. Educating parents, camp staff, and residents about how to prevent tick bites and what to do if they occur is essential to keeping everyone safe.
The forum is free and open to the public, ensuring that everyone has access to the information they need. Community members, especially those who spend time outdoors or supervise children in camps, are encouraged to attend.
Event Details:
- Date: Monday, July 22, 2025
- Time: 4:00 PM
- Location: Finkelstein Memorial Library – Fielding Room, 24 Chestnut Street, Spring Valley, NY 10977
For more information or questions about the event, please contact Senator Weber’s office. This is an opportunity to stay informed and prepared as we navigate tick season, ensuring our community stays healthy and safe.
