The Powassan virus has been linked to human infections in the US, Canada, and Russia.
Following an announcement by the Maine Centre for Sick Control and Prevention that a resident of Sagadahoc County has passed away from the rare virus, health officials are warning the public about the fatal Powassan viral sickness, an untreatable condition spread by ticks.
Up to 25 people in the US get infected each year, according to The Independent, and the most recent fatality is the third fatal case to occur in Maine since 2015, according to Fox News. Humans are primarily exposed to the Powassan virus by 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 instances, more cases have been reported in recent years. The Powassan virus has been linked to human infections in the US, Canada, and Russia.
The Powassan virus has the following symptoms, along with information on how to avoid contracting it:
Symptoms :-
The majority of Powassan virus patients, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, show no symptoms. For people with symptoms, it might take anywhere between a week and a month after a tick bite to start feeling unwell.
Many Powassan virus carriers do not exhibit any symptoms. For people with symptoms, it might 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 convulsions are signs of a severe illness.
One in ten patients with serious diseases passes away.
Most patients who survive a severe illness experience chronic health issues including recurrent headaches, loss of muscle mass and strength, and cognitive issues.
Treatment:-
The Powassan virus infection cannot be treated or prevented with drugs. Viruses are not treated with antibiotics. Some symptoms may be alleviated by rest, water, and over-the-counter painkillers. Hospitalization is frequently required for patients with severe illnesses in order to provide support for breathing, maintaining hydration, or lowering brain swelling.