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Got a Tick? Get It Tested

Mon, 07/19/2021 - 16:58
A lone star tick, which can be a carrier of human ehrlichiosis and other infections, can be found in the eastern and southern U.S.
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

In light of the threat posed by ticks, a significant problem on the East End, State University of New York health officials have reminded New Yorkers of the SUNY system’s free lab testing service for any ticks collected in the state.

Those interested can start with a form at nyticks.org/tick-submission to accompany any ticks that have been found on one's body. Detailed packing instructions for mailing ticks are also available online.

SUNY says ticks should ideally have been collected within 48 hours, either dead or alive, in a completely sealed plastic bag. Including a piece of damp paper towel — not soaking wet — is an important step because ticks that are dried or desiccated cannot be tested.

Lyme, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, deer tick virus, heartland virus, and Bourbon virus are among the pathogens that can be identified in the testing process.

The laboratory usually processes ticks within five to seven days of receipt, and results are then shared via email or using an assigned tick ID number in SUNY’s online results portal.

Villages

L.V.I.S. Fair Is Set for Saturday

The Ladies Village Improvement Society’s annual fair happens on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and this year’s “is bigger than ever,” the society says. Not only will the carousel be back, but the Playland area for kids will be expanded. There will be face painting, a roving magician, a bubble artist, and pony rides for the little ones. 

Jun 12, 2025

Montauk Chemists Opens, Minus Pharmacy

Frank Calvo, the longtime pharmacist at White’s Drug and Department Store, which closed on Oct. 31, has opened Montauk Chemists on Main Street and is selling over-the-counter merchandise including vitamins and self-care products. One week after an inspection of the store’s pharmacy, however, he is still awaiting New York State approval to operate it. 

Jun 12, 2025

Slow Start at New Gosman’s

In some ways, Gosman’s Dock, one of Montauk’s few remaining family-owned and operated businesses until its October 2024 sale, closely resembles the complex of restaurants and shops long revered by locals and visitors alike. In other ways, though, it is markedly different under its new ownership. 

Jun 12, 2025

 

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