Man in Maine dies after being bitten by tick: Insect infected him with rare virus

A Waldo County resident died of the Powassan virus. The Maine Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced on April 20 that it is a rare tick-borne virus. pressherald.

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This is at least the third Powassan virus (POWV) death reported in Maine, according to the state CDC.

The virus is rare, but the number of reported cases in the country has increased in recent years. Of the 14 cases confirmed in the state since 2010, three were reported last year and one this year, according to the Maine CDC. Cases of POWV infection are most frequent in the northeast and the Great Lakes region from late spring to mid-autumn, when ticks are most active.

The symptoms of this virus can vary greatly in severity, from no symptoms at all to fever, brain infection, or death. According to the US CDC, many people infected with the POWV virus do not show symptoms. But roughly 10 percent of people with severe cases die, and half of those who survive with severe cases suffer from long-term health problems, the agency said.

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There is currently no cure for POWV, but people with severe cases are often hospitalized and receive support to breathe, stay hydrated, and reduce brain swelling.

POWV is spread among humans when an infected black-legged or deer tick bites a person. Ticks become infected when they feed on the infected blood of deer, rodents, or other animals.

The CDC has warned residents of Maine to take precautions as ticks are now active on its territory.

“The ticks are active and looking for prey to bite right now,” said Nirav Shah, director of the Maine CDC. "I urge Maine residents and visitors to take steps to prevent tick bites."

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The CDC says the best way to avoid tick-borne diseases is to prevent biting parasites by being careful in their habitats, primarily in areas with tall grass, in forested and bushy areas, using insect spray or repellents. And every time after a walk, check for ticks on your clothes.

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