Upstate Resumes Tick Testing Program with Revised Fees

Upstate Medical University has resumed its tick-testing program, but with a fee of $37 for Onondaga County residents and $75 for non-residents. Previously free, the program has processed over 32,000 ticks since 2019, identifying approximately one-third as carriers of disease-causing pathogens. Despite the cost, the program's expansion to include all U.S. residents provides researchers with valuable data on tick-borne diseases and their geographic distribution.

Upstate Medical University Restores Tick-Testing Program with Revised Fee Structure

Following a brief suspension, Upstate Medical University has resumed its comprehensive tick-testing program, empowering individuals across the nation to determine the potential health risks posed by ticks. While previously offered free of charge, the program now carries a nominal fee to ensure its sustainability.

Onondaga County residents will continue to benefit from a reduced fee of $37, thanks to the county government's financial support. Non-county residents will pay $75 for the service, which entails thorough testing for an extensive range of tick-borne diseases.

The decision to implement fees stems from the financial burden incurred by the program. Upstate officials estimate that each tick test costs approximately $50, necessitating external funding to maintain the program's viability.

"The overwhelming volume of ticks we were receiving was putting a strain on our resources," explained Saravanan Thangamani, the laboratory's director. "Our team was working tirelessly to process specimens."

Prior to its suspension in March 2023, the free program processed over 32,000 ticks from individuals across New York State, prompting researchers to seek alternative funding sources. In response, Onondaga County provided a grant of $100,000, and the Upstate Foundation has also contributed financial support.

The relaunched program now extends its services beyond New York State, encompassing the entire United States. Individuals encountering ticks on themselves or their pets can now submit specimens for testing of 16 distinct pathogens. Results are typically delivered via email within three to five business days.

For those who have experienced a tick bite, the test results can be instrumental in guiding medical decisions and treatment plans. For researchers, the citizen science program provides invaluable insights into tick populations and disease prevalence across diverse geographical regions.

One of the program's groundbreaking discoveries is the prevalence of disease-causing microorganisms in ticks, with approximately one in three ticks carrying at least one pathogen. Lyme disease remains the most common, but the program has also shed light on the spread of less frequently encountered tick-borne diseases, such as babesia and anaplasma.

While concerns may arise regarding the potential impact of fees on tick submissions, Thangamani remains optimistic about the program's continued relevance. He anticipates a momentary dip in the number of ticks received but believes that expanding the program nationwide will yield valuable data, enhancing our understanding of tick-borne diseases in different ecosystems.

In conclusion, Upstate Medical University's tick-testing program remains a crucial resource for public health and scientific research. The revised fee structure ensures its longevity while maintaining its accessibility to individuals throughout the country. By working together, we can empower communities to make informed decisions about tick-related health risks and contribute to the collective knowledge on these prevalent and potentially devastating diseases.