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Potentially deadly tick disease ramps up across the US
FOX Weather • • health
Key Points:
- Authorities are warning about Powassan virus, a rare but potentially deadly tick-borne disease transmitted by black-legged deer ticks, which can infect a person within minutes of a bite and cause severe neurological symptoms.
- Since 2012, around 200 cases have been reported in the U.S., with a recent severe case involving a New Hampshire man who remains hospitalized with lasting complications.
- Powassan virus can cause encephalitis, seizures, paralysis, and has a fatality rate of 10-15% in severe cases, with many survivors suffering permanent neurological damage.
- There is currently no specific treatment for Powassan virus, and prevention measures include using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, avoiding tick-prone areas, and performing thorough tick checks after outdoor activities.
- Older adults, young children, and immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk, and tick activity peaks from late spring to mid-fall, prompting health officials to advise yard maintenance to reduce tick habitat.
