A new deadly tick-borne virus is on the rise

This wasn't on our 2023 bingo card.

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In a Nutshell As someone who has been diagnosed with Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, I know firsthand that tick bites are no joke and can pose a serious health threat. Now, we have another tick-borne illness to watch out for: Powassan virus. Find out how to protect yourself below. First up, check out these new health stories: • The most common candy-related dental issues • Why you get a headache after crying • What we've learned about long COVID so far Be well, Morgan Mandriota Newsletter Editor, Healthline

Written by Morgan Mandriota November 1, 2023 • 3 min read

what's got us buzzing What we know about the Powassan virus — and how keep yourself safe 🦠️ What is the Powassan virus? Unlike Lyme disease, which is caused by bacteria, this tick-borne illness is a virus. This means it can't be treated with antibiotics or prevented with any current vaccines. Most folks who get it experience mild symptoms, such as fever, headache, vomiting, and weakness. In extreme cases, it can lead to encephalitis and meningitis or seizures, loss of coordination, and confusion. 👀 How concerned should you be? This year, cases of the rare Powassan virus have been reported more than ever before and are expected to stay on the rise. I haven't had this one (thankfully) but based on my past experiences, tick-related illnesses can be debilitating. While this might sound scary, try not to stress too much. Remember, it's still a rare disease. According to Dr. Nima Majlesi, director of medical toxicology at Staten Island University Hospital, you have a very low chance of contracting the virus. Right now, Powassan is most prevalent in the United States from spring through fall in locations such as the Great Lakes and Northeast regions where deer are most prominent. If you live or work in these areas, you may want to take extra precautions to protect yourself. "Be outside, be active, and be educated," reminds Dr. Majlesi. 📉 Ways to reduce your risk. Fun fact: Ticks can't jump! They grab onto you when you brush past them. So, be careful to avoid the spots where they like to hang out, like tall grass, wooded areas, and hiking trails. You can use the usual tick precautions to lower your chance of getting Powassan: wearing long pants in wooded areas spraying your body or clothes with permethrin showering immediately after being outdoors doing a full body check after coming inside checking any pets you let outside Think you got bit or found a tick in your skin? Go to the doctor ASAP. When it comes to tick-borne illnesses, early detection can protect your health or even save your life like it did mine. I was diagnosed with Lyme disease 1 month post-bite, which is considered late and resulted in long-term side effects — waiting even longer could lead to severe health complications. SIGNS YOU WERE BIT

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Thanks for reading! We'll see you again on Friday. Stay safe and healthy, friends.

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