On Wednesday, Aug. 19, 5 p.m., Dr. Beatrice Szantyr, Lyme disease expert and medical advisor for MaineLyme, and Constance “Happy” Dickey, president and founding director of MaineLyme, will enhance our community’s awareness of a serious threat to the our wellbeing and suggest methods of prevention in a “Tick Talk” at the Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library.

Dr. Szantyr began her extensive study of tick-borne disorders more than 15 years ago. The informative talk will look at ticks, the bacteria which cause Lyme disease, the incidence of Lyme disease in Maine, the difficulties surrounding medical diagnosis, and the preventative steps to take to protect oneself and families from this disease. Szantyr, who is board certified in both internal medicine and pediatrics, has given expert testimony before the Maine Legislature concerning Lyme disease in the state of Maine and has lectured extensively to community and professional groups throughout New England. During the question and answer period following her talk, Szantyr will be joined by Dickey, a colleague who facilitates Lyme disease support groups around the state and who travels extensively with Szantyr to provide community education. From 2001 to 2007, Dickey served on the Board of Directors of International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society.

The importance of this program is underscored by rising statistics and demand attention. Thousands of cases are reported by the Maine Center for Disease Control yearly and statistics are steadily rising. The physical and mental ramifications can be devastating. Individuals and communities need to be informed. For more information, go to www.mainelyme.org. Register early as there in an attendance cap. Contact the library at 207-633-3112, or email Caroline Roberts croberts@bmpl.lib.me.us. Visit the library’s website at www.bmpl.lib.me.us.