Serious tick-borne virus raises concern in parts of the U.S.
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A rare but serious tick-borne disease known as Powassan virus is gaining attention as cases rise across parts of the United States. Although infections remain uncommon, the virus can cause severe neurological symptoms, including brain inflammation, long-term complications, and in some cases death. Health experts are urging the public to take tick prevention seriously, especially during warmer months when outdoor exposure increases.
Source
Anis H, Basha Shaik A, Karabulut E, Uzun M, Tiwari A, Nazir A, Uwishema O, Alemayehu A. Upsurge of Powassan virus disease in northeastern United States: a public health concern-a short communication. Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2023 Sep 14;85(11):5823-5826. doi: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000001313. PMID: 37915648; PMCID: PMC10617911.
Additional Reading
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2026/06/28/powassan-virus-disease-is-rise-us/