By Patrick Klinck
WGRZ News
LeRoy Central School District Superintendent Kim Cox has issued a statement regarding reports that what’s being described as “a cluster of students” in the district have come down with symptoms similar to Tourette Syndrome, a neurological disorder defined by involuntary motor and vocal tics.
“We have had some questions about a group of students in our District that have developed what appears to be Tourette-like symptoms. We are taking this issue seriously and we are working closely with students, their parents and medical professionals to determine the facts of these symptoms and to determine their cause. We ask the community to respect their privacy and the privacy of their families as we progress though our investigation. The safety and well-being of all students and staff in the District is of utmost importance. Parents with questions should call their school principals.
The NY State Health Department is assisting with the investigation. Department spokesman Peter Constantakes tells Two On Your Side that at this point it does not appear to be a risk for the general student population because it is not a communicable disease.
They are in the process of conducting health surveys with the affected students to try and determine whether there is a connection between medications or dietary histories. They are also looking into the possibility that it may be something in the environment at the school.
Right now, Constantakes says, it is too early to determine a cause. Two On Your Side is looking into the reports. More information will be posted as it becomes available.