The Powassan virus is spread by ticks and causes a variety of symptoms, including fever, vomiting, paralysis, and seizures. The virus’s first deadly case has been reported in Maine.
The first confirmed case and death caused by the Powassan virus in the state this year have been reported by Maine health officials. The Sagadahoc County resident died as a result of the infection, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
The deceased adult had neurological signs before succumbing to the virus, the state’s Department of Health and Human Services reported.
The Powassan virus is not very frequent in the United States, and according to statistics, only 25 cases have been reported there annually since 2015. Maine, on the other hand, has reported a total of 15 instances over the same period, including four cases from the previous year. Two of those cases resulted in death, making this the third mortality in the state linked to the Powassan virus since 2015.
The Powassan virus is spread in what way?
Through the bite of an infected deer tick or woodchuck tick, the I Powassan virus is spread. Ticks can be active at any time of year above freezing, but they are most common in the spring, summer, and fall. When a person contracts the virus, they don’t show any symptoms. However, symptoms could start showing up a week to a month after the tick bite.
What are the Powassan virus’s signs and symptoms?
Symptoms of the Powassan virus infection include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures, memory loss, and in severe cases, neurological consequences such inflammation of the brain or spinal cord. 10% of those who have a severe Powassan virus infection pass away as a result.
Deer ticks have been detected in all 16 counties in Maine. Ticks are often found in wooded, leafy, and shrubby regions. The agency suggests exercising caution when in locations where ticks may be present in order to reduce the risk of tick bites.
Wearing light-colored clothing that covers the arms and legs, tucking pants into socks, using an EPA-approved repellent, and checking for ticks regularly after outdoor activities are some of these practices. When you go home, it is advised to take off your clothes and dry them on high heat for 10 to 15 minutes to get rid of any crawling ticks.