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Madison County reports rare Powassan virus case
WSTM • • health
Key Points:
- A Madison County adult male has tested positive for the rare and potentially fatal Powassan virus, transmitted through the bite of an infected blacklegged (deer) tick.
- Powassan virus can cause severe illness including encephalitis and meningitis, with symptoms ranging from fever and headache to confusion and seizures.
- There are no vaccines or treatments for Powassan virus, making prevention through protective clothing, insect repellents, and prompt tick removal essential.
- Ticks can transmit the virus within 15 minutes of attachment, so checking for and removing ticks quickly is critical to reducing infection risk.
- The infected individual is currently recovering at home, and residents are urged to continue tick bite prevention measures, especially during temperatures above freezing.
