Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler was recently diagnosed with Lyme disease and started undergoing treatment last week, a spokesperson said Tuesday.
The sheriff "has continued to work during this time both in the office and from home," agency spokesperson Cristie Kahler said. "The sheriff is feeling well, but, as with many people who have been diagnosed with Lyme disease, [he] is experiencing some paralysis in his face and related impediments to his speech. Due to this, the sheriff has held off on attending some public events over the past week."
Among those events he missed was a session with U.S. Sen. Ben Cardin, who met with members of the sheriff's office HOPE (Heroin Overdose Prevention Effort) group at the southern precinct Monday.
Gahler was, however, able to attend his daughter's graduation from Bel Air High School on June 2.
Gahler is urging county residents be mindful of ticks that transmit the disease.
"For the last several years, Maryland has experienced a high rate of Lyme Disease," Kahler said. "This is an important reminder that people should be vigilant."
"Be sure to check yourself, your loved ones and your pets for ticks during this warm weather season," she continued. "Know the signs and early warning symptoms. Since the sheriff noticed these early signs, he has had the benefit of an early diagnosis and treatment, making his recovery a much easier road to travel."