The Powassan virus, transmitted by deer and woodchuck ticks, is a rare but potentially deadly infection. While only 25 cases are reported each year in the US, the number of unreported cases is unknown. In May 2023, an adult from Sagadahoc County, Maine, died after being infected with the virus, and developing neurological symptoms. This was the first identified case of Powassan virus disease in Maine for the year. Since 2015, Maine has recorded only 15 confirmed cases, with three resulting in fatalities. One of the main concerns are the severe neurological symptoms associated with the virus, which can result in memory loss, confusion, and seizures. Around 10% of those experiencing such severe disease will die. With climate change, tick populations are increasing, and ticks are becoming more active in the spring, summer, and fall. There are concerns that Powassan virus may become more prevalent as a consequence of climate change.
Tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and other infections are on the rise concurrent to the warming trend. CDC data shows the incidence of vector-borne diseases (including Lyme disease) that are transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas more than tripled between 2004 and 2018 in the US. While there is no approved vaccine or specific drug treatment for Powassan virus, taking steps to avoid ticks can greatly help in reducing the risk of infection. Here are some ways people can protect themselves and others from tick bites:
1. Wear appropriate clothing: Wear light-colored clothing covering the skin completely, with pants tucked into socks, to prevent ticks from crawling up. Avoid wearing black as it makes it harder to spot ticks, and clothing can also be treated with permethrin.
2. Use EPA-approved repellents: Use an effective repellant such as DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. These substances can be applied to the skin or clothing.
3. Avoid tick-infested areas: Try to avoid wooded, shrubby, or grassy areas that are inhabited by ticks, straying from unmarked paths.
4. Check clothing, gear, and pets: Check clothing, gear, and pets before leaving an infested area. After being out in the wilderness, ensure ticks are not lodged in hair or on the skin by showering promptly.
5. Know the symptoms: Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of Powassan virus disease. Immediately seek medical attention if any of these symptoms occur.
6. Don’t ignore symptoms: Pay attention to symptoms that could be caused by Powassan virus and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur.
Climate change may worsen the problem of tick-borne diseases, making it important to exercise caution in tick-infested areas and know the symptoms of illnesses such as Powassan virus disease. Until the issue has been fully addressed, it’s crucial to take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of ticks and tick bites, including checking clothing and gear, and being more aware of your surroundings.
