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Rockland County Health Department Issues Tick Bite Prevention Alert as Warm Weather Arrives

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1 year ago

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ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY – As outdoor activities increase with the arrival of warmer weather, the Rockland County Department of Health is urging residents to take proactive steps to protect themselves from tick bites and the diseases they may carry, including Lyme disease, Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis, Anaplasmosis, and the rare but serious Powassan virus.

Lyme disease remains the most common tick-borne illness in New York State, and the Hudson Valley region, including Rockland County, continues to be a high-risk area due to the widespread presence of infected blacklegged ticks (deer ticks).

“Ticks, like many of us, become more active during warmer weather. Prevention is the best defense,” said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. “Simple steps like using tick repellent, wearing protective clothing, and performing regular tick checks after being outdoors can greatly reduce your risk of getting a tick-borne illness.”

Key Tick Prevention Tips

Avoid Tick Habitats: Stick to the center of clear, well-traveled trails. Avoid tall grasses, bushy areas, and stone walls.

Perform Frequent Tick Checks: Brush off ticks while outside, and do full-body tick checks when returning indoors—especially within two hours.

Proper Clothing: Wear light-colored long sleeves, pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes. Tuck pants into socks and shirts into pants for added protection.

Safe Tick Removal: Use fine-tipped tweezers to gently pull ticks straight out without twisting or squeezing. Prompt removal reduces the risk of infection.

Use Insect Repellent: Select repellents designed to deter ticks and always follow label instructions.

What to Do If You Find a Tick or Have Symptoms

If you discover a tick on yourself, a child, or a pet, remove it promptly and monitor for symptoms such as rash, fever, or flu-like illness. Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms develop, as early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing serious complications.

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Government

Rockland County Shares Back-to-School Safety Tips for Drivers, Students

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4 weeks ago

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August 27, 2026

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With the new school year just around the corner, Rockland County roads will soon become busier with children walking and biking to school, crossing streets and gathering at bus stops during the morning and afternoon commute.

The county is reminding parents, caregivers, students and drivers to take extra precautions to help keep children safe as they return to school.

Younger children can be especially difficult for motorists to see, while some students may be using a new bus stop, crossing unfamiliar streets or walking to school on their own for the first time.

Through its federally funded Safe Streets program, Rockland County is sharing several back-to-school safety reminders for students and motorists.

Safety Tips For Students

Students waiting for the bus are encouraged to:

  • Arrive at the bus stop early and avoid rushing.
  • Stay at least 10 feet away from the curb while waiting for the bus.
  • Look left, right and left again before crossing a street.
  • Never walk behind a school bus.

Safety Tips For Drivers

Motorists are reminded to slow down and remain alert when driving near schools, bus stops and areas where children may be walking or biking.

Drivers should also obey flashing school bus lights and stop as required when children are entering or exiting a school bus.

With more students expected on local roads once classes resume, the county is urging everyone to stay attentive and give children the extra time and space they need to travel safely.

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Government

Clarkstown Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl Launches Text Alerts for Tax Bill Updates

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1 month ago

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August 9, 2026

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CLARKSTOWN, NY — Beginning with the new tax season on September 1, the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office will offer residents a new and convenient way to receive updates about their tax bills directly by text message.

Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl announced that residents can opt in to the service by texting “TAXINFO” to 845-644-6899.

Once a resident’s tax bill is ready, those enrolled will receive a text message containing a link. Residents can then enter their property address to view their tax bill and, if they choose, make a payment online.

The new text notification system does not replace traditional mailed tax bills. Residents who sign up for the service will continue to receive their regular tax bill in the mail. The text alerts are intended to provide an additional and more convenient way for residents to know when their bills are available and access their information.

“Residents asked for a simpler way to receive tax bill information, and I’m proud that we were able to make it happen,” Wohl said.

Residents with questions about the new service can contact the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office at 845-639-2010.

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