In an unfortunate occurrence, the inaugural fatality linked to the rare tick-borne infection, Powassan virus, has been confirmed in Maryland. The individual unfortunate to have been afflicted by Powassan had contracted the virus during travel to Canada.
The confirmation of this occurrence came to light on September 22, when the state health department confirmed the presence of the virus in an individual who had traveled to Maryland. Powassan is a rare ailment transmitted by the bite of tick infected with the virus.
Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services, Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman, expressed his condolences in relation to the tragic event. He stated, “It’s with a heavy heart we announce the first death associated with the Powassan virus here in Maryland. The rarity of Powassan’s occurrence in our state is noteworthy, with this being the first documented instance. The individual fell victim to the virus during a trip to Canada and upon their return to Maryland.”
Despite the sad circumstance, Dr. Kalyanaraman assured Maryland residents that health officials do not perceive any threat of local transmission. However, he advised the public to exercise caution in potential tick habitats, recommending they either practice protective measures or avoid such areas entirely to mitigate risk.
The growing prevalence of the Powassan virus made headlines when a Gardiner, New York citizen became its first victim in the state during August. Amid the rarity, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports a subtle but steady increase in Powassan diagnoses over recent years.
Powassan virus, primarily spread through infected tick bites, shows limited instances of person-to-person transmission, such as rare occurrences during blood transfusion. Its symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, as well as loss of coordination and disturbances in memory and speech, although some individuals may present no discernible symptoms. Severe cases of Powassan can lead to encephalitis and meningitis.
The year 2022 saw 44 Powassan virus diagnoses across various states reported to the CDC, with seven leading to fatalities. So far in 2023, the CDC received reports of 28 confirmed cases. Activity of Powassan cases is primarily concentrated in the northeastern states and the Great Lakes region from late spring till mid-fall—the peak period of tick activity. As of present, there exist no vaccines or specific treatments for the Powassan virus, emphasized the CDC.
