Lyme disease is an inflammatory disease caused by a bacteria and is normally is seen in the late spring, summer & fall. Ticks pick up the Borrelia bacterium whe they bite mice or deer that are infected with Lyme disease. Infected ticks bite and stay on the body for 48 hours in order to transmit the bacteria to humans.
Not everyone infectec with Lyme Disease becomes ill. For those who are symptomatic, early signs of Lyme disease resemble the flu and include fever, headache, muscle pain and fatigue. There is a rash at the site of the tick bit resembling a "bulls eye" a red spot with a clear area n the center. If treated early with amtibiotics, Lyme disese can be cured. Antibiotics are generall given for 10-21 days and can begin to feel better in 3-4 weeks. If left untreated Lyme
Disease can progress to advanced stages and have serious complications. Thus, it is important to completely inspect all skin surfaces, clothes and pets after hikng or walking outside and ensure all tick bites are treated promptly.

We have recently been informed that as of May 1, 2010 Health Net will no longer be available as a choice for insurance. Apparently Commericial Health Net will be phsed out over time according to their employer enrollment period. Health Net tell us that they have sent out mailings alerting patients that they are being transitioned into AmeriChoice Insurance and patients will receive new cards shortly. Drs. Lerch, Amato & Associates ARE participating providers and accept AmeriChoice, and there will be no interruption in health care services if a patient transisitons into AmeriChoice. However, it a patient does not choose to be enrolled in AmeriChoice, and chooses a University Health Plan we will not be able to service you as your pediatrician for your child.
So--again if you want to stay with Drs. Lerch & Amato as your pediatrician, you will need to transition into AmeriChoice from HealthNet.

The practice still has H1N1 and the Seasonal Flu Vaccines available at both our Gibbsboro and Washington Twp Offices.
I't not too late to still get your flu shot!!!

August 11, 2009 - Gibbsboro, NJ - Dr. G. Lee Lerch and Dr. Christopher Amato, two leading pediatric physicians with offices in Gibbsboro and Washington Township, New Jersey announced today the launching of the practice’s new website, http://www.lerchamatopeds.com. Their new website showcases the practice, including services offered and provides visitors with events and helpful healthcare information.

Lerch Amato Pediatric Associates is affiliated and on staff with Virtua Healthcare System and The Kennedy Healthcare System. The practice commonly refers to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Du Pont, St. Christopher’s, Cooper Hospital, as well as state of the art specialists, hospitals and other institutions.

Lerch & Amato Pediatric Associates delivers the highest level of infant and pediatric care for the children of Gloucester, Camden and Burlington Counties, with their highly committed, and experienced staff of pediatricians, clinical professionals, nurses and administrative staff. With state of the art offices, a dedicated and expert staff, who are warm and friendly, Drs. Lerch & Amato pride themselves on delivering exceptional, compassionate care.

The practice, one of a handful in New Jersey that recognizes the economic pressures young parents have with a new baby and has a dedicated “Sample Area” where patients may help themselves to sample formulas, coupons and other money saving items.

Dr. Lerch, Amato & Associates is comprehensive pediatric practice offering, ADD/ADHD management, asthma and allergy care, audiovisual screenings, infant evaluation and care, respiratory treatment, premature infant care, routine health examinations, sports physical exams, vaccine management, weight management, well-child care and ear piercing.

To learn more about Lerch / Amato Pediatrics, please visit http://www.lerchamatoped.com.