Today, the Michigan House of Representatives approved State Representative Bill G. Schuette’s resolution recognizing a condition that impacts hundreds of thousands of people across the country, including many in Michigan.

Schuette’s House Resolution 238 names May as National Lyme Disease Awareness Month in Michigan. Lyme Disease is a tick-borne illness with symptoms very similar to the common flu, but it can have significant long-term effects if it’s not treated right away – including permanent fatigue, body aches and difficulty thinking. The resolution was adopted by the Michigan House by acclamation on a voice vote.

“Unfortunately, many people don’t realize they have Lyme Disease until it has already caused lasting harm,” Schuette said when addressing the resolution on the House floor. “There are almost half a million new cases in the U.S. every year, and cases in Michigan have been rising every year since 2012 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s important to raise awareness for this disease that impacts people across our communities and help prevent cases in the future.”

People are encouraged to check clothing and extremities after being outside, wear long sleeves and pants in areas with high concentrations of ticks, clear tall grasses and bushes in yards, and keep pets tick-free. Schuette thanked Jill and Steve Sklenar, as well as Sue and Larry Kurin – constituents from the 95^th House District that includes all of Midland County and portions of Gladwin County – for their outreach on the importance of the resolution.

PHOTO INFORMATION: State Representative Bill G. Schuette speaks on House Resolution 238 before the Michigan House on Wednesday, May 1. HR 238 declares May as National Lyme Disease Awareness Month in Michigan.