Bill > SR91

This resolution designates May 2025 as "Lyme Disease and Tick-Borne Illness Awareness Month" in Pennsylvania, highlighting the serious public health challenges posed by Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. The resolution provides extensive context about the disease, noting that it is caused by a bacterial infection transmitted through blacklegged tick bites, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identifying it as the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. In 2024, Pennsylvania recorded 16,599 lab-confirmed cases, though the CDC estimates actual cases may be around 160,000 due to significant underreporting. The resolution emphasizes that the blacklegged tick has been found in all 67 Pennsylvania counties, with 54.9% of ticks in 2022 testing positive for at least one pathogen, and highlights that approximately 20% of Lyme disease cases can lead to long-term chronic symptoms. By designating this awareness month, the Pennsylvania Senate aims to increase public understanding of the disease's prevention, potential severity, diagnostic challenges, and treatment options, while encouraging residents to take precautions during outdoor activities to reduce tick bite risks.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=R&bn=91