An Elderly Man in Alaska Dies from Alaskapox, the First Known Fatality
In a shocking turn of events, an elderly man in Alaska has succumbed to Alaskapox, becoming the first known fatality caused by the recently discovered virus. State health officials have confirmed this tragic incident, which has brought newfound attention to the virus that has been making headlines. The man, who resided in the remote Kenai Peninsula and had a weakened immune system due to cancer treatments, was admitted to the hospital in November and tragically passed away in late January. The Alaska Department of Health released a bulletin on Friday, providing details about the case.
Alaskapox, also known as AKPV, belongs to a group of viruses called orthopoxviruses. These viruses infect mammals and lead to the development of skin lesions. Although Alaskapox was first identified in 2015, its relation to smallpox, cowpox, and mpox has only recently been established. The exact source of the man’s infection remains unknown, but health officials speculate that it could be linked to a stray cat that lived with him. This incident comes on the heels of health officials in Oregon confirming a rare case of human plague in an individual likely infected by their pet cat.
Symptoms of Alaskapox include one or more skin lesions, a rash, swollen lymph nodes, and joint or muscle pain. The Alaska Department of Health warns that some patients initially mistake these symptoms for spider or insect bites. Dr. Joe McLaughlin, state epidemiologist and chief of the Alaska Section of Epidemiology at the Alaska Department of Health, advises individuals with lesions resembling Alaskapox to seek medical attention promptly. He emphasizes the importance of early intervention, particularly for those with underlying medical conditions or compromised immune systems, as they may be at higher risk for severe infection.
Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, echoes this sentiment, urging individuals experiencing these symptoms to consult a healthcare professional. He emphasizes that even if someone hasn’t been to Alaska, it is crucial to consider the possibility of smallpox and seek medical evaluation. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential in such cases.
The transmission of Alaskapox remains somewhat unclear, but researchers suggest that it may be zoonotic, meaning it can jump from animals to humans. The bulletin released by health officials states that tests have detected evidence of current or past infection in various small mammal species in the Fairbanks area, including red-backed voles and at least one domestic pet. Dr. Schaffner explains that the virus is typically spread through close contact with wild animals and small rodents. Domestic cats, if they come into contact with these rodents and kill them, can become infected and potentially transmit the virus through scratches or bites.
Although the cat in this recent case tested negative for Alaskapox, it regularly hunted small mammals and frequently scratched the patient. Consequently, it is possible that the cat had the virus on its claws when it scratched the man. The bulletin highlights a notable scratch near the armpit area, where the first symptom—a red lesion—was observed.
To protect against Alaskapox, health officials recommend taking precautions around wildlife to avoid potential infections. Additionally, individuals with skin lesions that may be caused by the virus should keep the affected area covered with a bandage. Sharing bedding or linens that have come into contact with the lesion should be avoided. While there is currently no evidence of domestic pets exhibiting signs or symptoms of Alaskapox infection, pet owners should remain vigilant and promptly seek veterinary evaluation if their pets have lesions or open wounds.
Since 2015, only six other cases of Alaskapox have been reported to Alaska health officials. All these cases involved individuals residing in the Fairbanks area, which is over 300 miles away from the Kenai Peninsula. Most patients experienced mild illnesses that resolved without hospitalization within a few weeks. However, individuals with compromised immune systems may be at higher risk for severe illness. Richard Reithinger, an infectious disease epidemiologist at the nonprofit research institute RTI International, believes that the distribution of Alaskapox is currently limited to Alaska. He states that the risk of Alaskapox becoming a major public health concern is very low, as it is unlikely for anyone outside the Fairbanks area to come into contact with the virus.
Nevertheless, with increased awareness surrounding Alaskapox, health officials anticipate more reported cases. Julia Rogers, an epidemic intelligence service officer with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, emphasizes the need for extensive animal sampling and testing to gain a better understanding of the virus’s prevalence in the animal population throughout Alaska and potentially beyond.
While this tragic incident highlights the severity of Alaskapox, it is essential to remain calm and follow the recommended precautions. By staying informed and seeking medical attention when necessary, individuals can protect themselves and their loved ones from this
