Environmental testing to continue at Le Roy school district

Posted at: 02/04/2012 12:07 PM | Updated at: 02/04/2012 6:56 PM
By: Amanda Ciavarri | WHEC.com

Hundreds of residents attended a meeting at Le Roy High School this morning to hear an update on testing for possible causes of mysterious neurological tic symptoms that seem to be spreading throughout the community. 

Residents asked dozens of questions relating to past testing and possible causes, and the school district revealed its plans for further testing. Some residents were relieved to hear from the district about its further investigation, but others felt they weren't hearing the full story. 

The symptoms are affecting at least 12 teens in the district, or many as 19, including one adult. Possible causes like drugs, heavy metal poisoning, and side effects from HPV vaccine Gardasil are already ruled out. Doctors who studied the case originally gave a diagnosis of conversion disorder. But some involved don't believe that diagnosis, and are pushing for more answers.

Today the district said independent consultant Leader Professional Services will begin air quality testing after reviewing tests from the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership. Project managers say there was no flaws with previous tests, but they want to pursue a more comprehensive approach.

Tests will look into possible ventilation issues, include monitoring temperature, humanity, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide levels in selected classrooms after hours. Additional sampling with test for volatile organic compounds, formaldehyde or fungi in the air. 

At this time, it's not clear what could happen after results are in. Findings of air quality tests will indicate need for soil or sub-slab sampling. 

The tic symptoms began appearing in teens in October, including involuntary twitches, movements, or sounds. A previous investigation from the state Department of Health in conjunction with the Office of Mental Health, Genesee County Health Department, Le Roy Central School District and contractor Work Fit Medical found no infectious or environmental etiologies.

For more Rochester, N.Y., news, visit our website at www.whec.com

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