Tick-Borne Powassan Virus Infections Are Increasing

As we begin the summer months, and people spend more time outside, we experience more tick-borne illnesses. Mention tick-borne illnesses and you immediately think of Lyme Disease which is the most common tick-borne disease in the United States.

A new tick-borne illness is emerging in the same geographic area that Lyme Disease is seen.   Powassan Virus (POWV) has increased from two cases reported in 2008 to well over 30 reported in 2017.  Two cases have been reported recently in New Jersey, including one fatality.

In Lyme Disease the tick attaches to the human body for 36-48 hours prior to the bacterium being transmitted to humans. In Powassan Virus this occurs within the first 15 minutes that the tick latches on. The incubation period can range from one week to one month with patients experiencing fever, vomiting, headache, weakness, loss of coordination, confusion, difficulty speaking and or seizures. The virus affects the central nervous system and can cause encephalitis and meningitis. One in 10 cases is fatal.  Recovery with permanent neurological damage can occur.

There are no medications or vaccines available to prevent or treat POWV infections. Treatment is supportive. Scientists believe the increase in ticks and POWV is a direct result of climate change.

Prevention is the key especially if you are going to be in an area known to have ticks. Experts suggest:

1. Wear long sleeves and pants with socks pulled up over the bottom of the leg pants.
2. Wear light colored clothes so ticks can be spotted on your clothing
3. Use insect repellant with at least 20% DEET. Spray it on the exterior of your clothing and apparel
4. Upon returning inside perform a thorough tick check.

This is an infection and virus most practicing physicians know very little about. There are no telltale warning rashes as in Lyme Disease.  Until more is known, prevention is the best option.