Girls developing tics frightens parents

LEROY, N.Y. (WIVB) - What is making students sick in the LeRoy School District? It's a medical mystery in Genesee County.

That question brought concerned parents to a community meeting Wednesday night at LeRoy High School. At least a dozen students - all girls - have developed uncontrolled shaking or "tics" believed to be symptoms of a neurological issue.

The district says the affected students have been properly diagnosed, but parents say otherwise.

"They're treating the symptom, but they're not treating the cause and I am very forward about because I think we need to have an open mind," stated James DuPont, whose daughter is among the girls affected by this issue. He added, "It's not like I'm showing animosity toward the doctors or toward the health department."

Dr. Gregory Young of the NYS Department of Health said, "All these children have received treatment based on what they've been diagnosed with. We're not sharing anything because we can't due to HIPPA, and due to confidentiality reasons, but they all have been - they've all been treated and they're improving."

The district says it is working with medical specialists and the State Health Department on the issue. The health department says its investigation has not revealed environmental causes as the root of the illness.