FIRST US DEATH FROM POWASSAN VIRUS SPARKS CONCERNS ABOUT TICK-BORNE DISEASE

According to the Maine Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, a person in the US has died from the uncommon Powassan virus, making it the first fatal case in the nation this year.

As a result of the death of the resident of Sagadohoc County, health officials have warned the public about the deadly viral disease, which is currently incurable.

Humans are typically exposed to the Powassan virus through bites from infected deer ticks, groundhog ticks, or squirrel ticks between late spring and mid-autumn in the Great Lakes region of North America.

Despite the rarity of Powassan cases, more cases have been reported in recent years. The Powassan virus has been linked to human infections in the US, Canada, and Russia.

The majority of Powassan virus patients, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, show no symptoms. For people who have symptoms, it can take anywhere between a week and a month after a tick bite to start feeling unwell.

Fever, headache, nausea, and weakness are examples of early signs. Powassan virus can cause serious illnesses, such as encephalitis or meningitis, which are infections of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Confusion, loss of coordination, difficulty speaking, and seizures are signs of a severe illness. One in ten people with severe disease passes away.

The Powassan virus infection cannot be treated or prevented with medication. Viruses are not treated by antibiotics. Some symptoms may be alleviated by rest, fluids, and over-the-counter painkillers. Hospitalisation is frequently required for patients with severe illness in order to provide support for breathing, maintaining hydration, or reducing brain swelling.