Powassan virus claims one life in America: All you need to know about the virus

In an alarming case that has come to light recently, a deadly infectious virus, also known as Powassan virus, has claimed one life in the United States. As stated by the Maine Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC), an adult recently died after reportedly contracting the deadly virus, thus marking the first case of POW virus disease in Maine this year. to be done. While Powassan infections are fairly rare, infections have spread in recent years, particularly in the US, Canada and Russia, raising concern globally. Two deaths were reported in Maine last year after the state recorded about 15 confirmed cases of infection since 2015.

According to IndependentTwenty-five people are infected each year in the US, with the most recent death being the third POW-related death since 2015. While it has created a worrying situation for the health experts, read on to know about the contagious virus, its symptoms, causes and treatment.

About Powassan virus and its cause

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Powassan virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick such as a deer tick, groundhog tick or squirrel tick. most cases are informed of From late spring to mid-fall in the Northeast and Great Lakes regions, a time when ticks are most active.

Powassan virus: symptoms

In the initial days, people may feel symptoms of fever, headache, vomiting and weakness.

The virus can later cause an infection of the brain (encephalitis) or build up in the membranes around the brain and spinal cord (meningitis).

-In severe cases, patients may suffer from confusion, loss of coordination, difficulty speaking, and seizures.

Powassan virus: diagnosis

People who are infected with the deadly virus need to contact their healthcare provider, who will diagnose their condition through laboratory tests of blood and spinal fluid based on the patient’s signs and symptoms.

Powassan virus: treatment

While there is no specific medication to treat cases of Powassan virus infection, doctors often prescribe OTC medications to relieve symptoms, as noted by . CDC,

Doctors recommend complete rest and include fluids in the patients’ diet.

Doctors also prescribe over-the-counter pain medications to help with symptoms.

People with severe symptoms are often admitted to the hospital to get help with breathing, stay hydrated, and reduce swelling in the brain.