Thread by @LonnieRhea

Susanna Visser, Dr.PH, MS @CDCgov @CDC_NCEZID primary focus now is to increase Congress awareness of the severity of Lyme and tick-borne diseases. “Urgent Crisis!” #LivLymeSummit @liv_lyme

@CDCgov @CDC_NCEZID @liv_lyme Visser | 2017 was a record year for Lyme and TBD's. Lyme is underreported. 42,743 cases reported but actual number are 10 x higher = 427,430 cases of Lyme. We can verify by looking at ICD codes on insurance claims. #LivLymeSummit

@CDCgov @CDC_NCEZID @liv_lyme Visser | This is the first year that congress is funding tick surveillance at the CDC, hopes to expand this program. Because we have no vaccines and no method to control ticks, prevention is key. #LivLymeSummit.

Visser | many people report tick bites yet never report it to a doctor. Hits to website shows pt’s rarely search for prevention. May is peak season for search for Lyme. Says “biggest risk is the tick you didn’t see.” Recommends: “if bit by a see a doctor!” #LivLymeSummit

Visser | Reaction to the famous poppy seed muffin. 😂 #LivLymeSummit

Visser | sites: "After years of being ill, @meghanor found herself with one of medicine’s most bitterly contested diagnoses—a baffling disease that has pitted experts against one another and against patients." #LivLymeSummit theatlantic.com/magazine/archi…

Visser | “we are loosing the battle against tick-borne diseases” This is relevant in every single state. She done 29 congressional briefings across the US is fighting for patients w/ Lyme. #TICKact #LivLymeSummit

.@HolidayGoodreau says Sue Visser "is on our team." If she hasn't met with a policymaker in your state yet please reach out to her. Lyme is only getting $12 million per year. We desperately need more funding! #LivLymeSummit

@HolidayGoodreau Visser | While Lyme is a reportable disease it is up to the states & some states are completely dropping the requirement. Plattis-Mills says the reporting process is a huge burden on physicians. #LivLymeSummit