Welcome

A warm welcome from the Global Health Institute at SUNY Upstate Medical University and the Central New York Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Alliance. We are delighted you have joined us for the much anticipated 2025 Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Summit.

The summit is timely. Tick-borne diseases are a growing threat, and the latest 2008-2018 data are startling:

• Up 439% in Central New York
• Up 970% in the Finger lakes
• Up 817% in the Southern Tier

Bearing in mind the challenges and opportunities accompanying this rise in disease, the objectives of this summit are to:

1. Describe and discuss the current state of L&TBD across New York State, including recent epidemiologic trends and vector surveillance.
2. Explore current and novel diagnostic and therapeutic advancements to combating L&TBD.
3. Increase healthcare provider competence in recognizing and treating L&TBD.
4. Encourage innovation and collaboration by developing research partnerships, and promoting prevention and patient advocacy to improve patient outcomes.

The summit is for individuals who share a strong concern for these matters. We have assembled a diverse group of speakers and participants who approach the issues from various angles, and we anticipate a dynamic and constructive dialogue in what is a complex field. Our aim is to foster a respectful and thoughtful exchange of ideas. Collectively, we have a valuable opportunity to craft a path towards a healthier, safer future as we explore practical solutions that can transform the lives of those grappling daily with life-changing diseases.

We are grateful you are joining us in this important endeavor. Your dedication and commitment to driving awareness and knowledge about Lyme and tick-borne diseases will be a key force behind positive change in Central New York and beyond.

Here’s to learning together,

The Summit Planning Committee