(1)    The department shall perform research relating to Lyme disease in humans.

   (2)   The department, in consultation with the department of public instruction, the department of natural resources and the department of agriculture, trade and consumer protection, shall do all of the following:

      (a)    Monitor the spread and incidence of Lyme disease.

      (b)    Investigate suspected and confirmed cases of Lyme disease.

      (c)    Review materials, activities and epidemiologic investigations prepared or conducted in other states in which Lyme disease is endemic and recommend a statewide strategy for dealing with Lyme disease.

      (d)    Develop, update and disseminate information for use by clinicians, laboratory technicians and local health departments that diagnose or treat Lyme disease or investigate cases or suspected cases of Lyme disease.

      (e)    Develop and distribute information through offices of physicians and local health departments and by newsletters, public presentations or other releases of information. That information shall include all of the following:

         1.    A description of Lyme disease.

         2.    Means of identifying whether or not individuals may be at risk of contracting Lyme disease.

         3.    Measures that individuals may take to protect themselves from contracting Lyme disease.

         4.    Locations for procuring additional information or obtaining testing services.

      (f)    Conduct research on the serological prevalence of Lyme disease.