Powassan Virus: The Rare Tick-Borne Disease More People Should Know About

Ticks are more than just a nuisance.

Some tick bites can spread serious diseases, including Powassan virus, a rare but increasing tick-borne illness that more people should understand before spending time outdoors.

Powassan virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected tick. While the disease is still considered rare, reported cases have increased in recent years. Most cases in the United States occur in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions, especially from late spring through mid-fall, when ticks are most active.

The most important thing to know is this: there are no vaccines to prevent Powassan virus disease and no medicines that specifically treat it.

That makes prevention the best protection.

What Is Powassan Virus?

Powassan virus is a virus that can be passed to humans through the bite of an infected tick.

Many people who are infected never develop symptoms. But for those who do, the illness can range from mild fever-like symptoms to severe neurologic disease.

Powassan virus can cause serious inflammation of the brain, known as encephalitis, or inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord, known as meningitis.

These severe cases can be life-threatening.

Common Symptoms of Powassan Virus

For people who develop symptoms, illness usually begins one week to one month after a tick bite.

Initial symptoms may include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Weakness

These early symptoms can look like many other illnesses, which is why it is important to tell a healthcare provider if you have recently been bitten by a tick or spent time in areas where ticks are common.

Severe Powassan Virus Symptoms

Powassan virus can sometimes lead to severe disease involving the brain or nervous system.

Symptoms of severe disease may include:

• Confusion
• Loss of coordination
• Difficulty speaking
• Seizures
• Signs of meningitis or encephalitis

Severe Powassan virus disease is serious. According to CDC information, about 1 out of 10 people with severe disease die. About half of those who survive severe disease experience long-term health problems, which may include recurring headaches, loss of muscle mass and strength, or memory problems.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

Anyone can develop severe disease if infected with Powassan virus.

However, some people are at higher risk, including:

• Older adults
• Children
• People with weakened immune systems

These groups should be especially careful about preventing tick bites during active tick season.

How Powassan Virus Is Diagnosed

If you think you or a family member may have Powassan virus disease, talk to a healthcare provider.

Healthcare providers may diagnose Powassan virus based on:

• Signs and symptoms
• History of living in or traveling to an area where Powassan virus is known to circulate
• Possible exposure to ticks
• Laboratory testing

Testing may also help rule out other infections that can cause similar symptoms.

Is There Treatment for Powassan Virus?

There are currently no vaccines to prevent Powassan virus disease and no medicines that specifically treat it.

Antibiotics do not treat viruses.

For mild symptoms, rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain medications may help relieve discomfort. However, people with severe disease often need to be hospitalized. Hospital care may include support for breathing, hydration, and reducing swelling in the brain.

This is why early medical attention matters if symptoms develop after a tick bite or possible tick exposure.

How to Prevent Powassan Virus

The best way to reduce your risk of Powassan virus is to prevent tick bites.

Before going outdoors:

• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent.
• Wear long sleeves and long pants in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas.
• Treat clothing and gear with permethrin when appropriate.
• Walk in the center of trails.
• Avoid tall grass, leaf litter, and thick brush when possible.

After being outside:

• Check your body for ticks.
• Check children, pets, clothing, and outdoor gear.
• Shower soon after coming indoors.
• Remove attached ticks as soon as possible.

Pay close attention to hidden areas, including the scalp, behind the ears, underarms, waistline, behind the knees, ankles, and groin area.

When to Call a Doctor

Contact a healthcare provider if you or a family member develops symptoms after a tick bite or after spending time in an area where ticks may live.

Watch for:

• Fever
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Confusion
• Trouble speaking
• Loss of coordination
• Seizures

Do not wait for symptoms to become severe. Powassan virus is rare, but serious cases can progress quickly.

The Bottom Line

Powassan virus disease is rare, but it is increasing.

Because there is no vaccine and no specific medicine to treat Powassan virus, prevention is the most important step. Avoid tick bites, check for ticks after being outdoors, and seek medical care if symptoms develop after possible exposure.

A few simple outdoor habits can help protect you and your family during tick season.

Source:https://www.cdc.gov/