The state Department of Public Health recently announced that a Connecticut resident has tested positive for Powassan virus infection (POWV). This is the second case that has been identified in our state in 2022. From 2017 to 2021, 12 cases of POWV were reported, including 3 in 2021. Of those 12 cases, 2 were fatal.
POWV is typically spread through the bite of an infected black-legged or deer tick. It can take a week to one month after the bite from an infected tick to develop symptoms. The virus can be transmitted in as little as 15 minutes after the tick first attaches.
Most people infected with POWV will likely experience no symptoms, or a mild flu-like illness. Some will develop severe illness.
Residents can take several actions to help prevent tick bites. This includes using CDC-recommended mosquito repellants, avoiding areas where ticks are likely to be, and treating clothing, hiking or camping gear with products containing 0.5 percent permethrin. For additional information, please click here. |