Lyme Disease: Prevention, Treatment and Management for Landscape Professionals and Gardeners

Lyme disease is an increasing threat to those who work in the landscape, with New England ranking among the highest rates per capita and Massachusetts now fourth in the nation in total cases reported. The disease and its possible co-infections have many forms, and if left untreated can cause a major impact on a victim's life and work. This program "Lyme Disease: Prevention, Treatment and Management for Landscape Professionals and Gardeners" provided the latest information on the disease itself - how it is transmitted, its range of symptoms, accurate and timely diagnosis, acute vs. chronic phases, and medical treatment options. We reviewed methods of preventing infection through landscape practices and personal protection. Speakers will also address public health issues, educational efforts, research studies, and community resources available to help individuals as well as companies whose employees are likely to be infected. We hope that attendees will come away understanding the importance of preventive measures and early detection. This special forum is co-sponsored with The New England Wild Flower Society.

Our guest panelists included:
Pat Smith, President of the Lyme Disease Association
Jeanne Hubbuch, M.D., Newton, MA
Rolf Briggs, President of Tree Specialists, Holliston, MA
Dori Smith, owner Gardens for Life, Acton, MA.

Pat Smith, President of the Lyme Disease Association (LDA), has been an activist in Lyme-related issues for twenty years. Under her leadership, the LDA, an all-volunteer organization, has become national in scope and supports many research, education, and patient support activities. http://www.lymediseaseassociation.org

Jeanne Hubbuch, M.D., is a family practice physician from Newton, Massachusetts, with experience with both acute and chronic Lyme and co-infections. Her complementary, holistic treatment approach follows the latest research results, and emphasizes diet, lifestyle, and stress reduction for treatment and recovery.

Rolf Briggs, Certified Arborist, is President of Tree Specialists, Inc., Holliston, Massachusetts, providing tree care services. A twice-victim of Lyme disease, he has developed a company-wide approach to prevent infection among his employees, and promotes methods to reduce tick exposure in the landscape.

Dori Smith, M. Ed., owner of Gardens for Life, Inc., a landscape design/install company. A recent victim of Lyme disease, Dori will discuss the impact of a Lyme disease infection on the victim's life and work. She will act as moderator for this forum.