Tick Virus That Causes Rare Brain Infection Kills New York Man

Ticks are among the most dangerous bugs in the United States. They transmit a range of diseases including Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. These tiny arachnids also carry pathogens that cause the potentially fatal Powassan fever.

Health officials revealed that a New York resident died from the viral tick-borne disease, Thursday. The Gardiner resident had underlying health conditions prior to his death earlier this week.

The Ulster County Department of Health said the man succumbed to Powassan fever, a rare disease that can cause encephalitis or meningitis and is spread by infected deer ticks.

The death marks the first reported case of Powassan in New York this year. The state typically has between zero to six cases annually.

Although rare, the Powassan virus becomes increasingly prevalent. It cannot be treated with antibiotics or any medicine and can cause serious illness.

Symptoms of infection include headache, fever, vomiting, loss of conditions, memory and speech problems, albeit the disease is often asymptomatic. Health authorities urge those who have been bitten by ticks and experience any of the symptoms to see a doctor.

Infected individuals who experience severe disease usually need to be hospitalized to stay hydrated, get support for breathing, or reduce swelling in the brain.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said that about one in 10 people with severe disease dies, and about half of the people with severe disease who survived suffer from long term health problems, which include recurring headaches, memory problems and loss of muscle mass and strength.

No vaccine is available to prevent contracting the disease, so the only way to reduce the risk of infection is by avoiding tick bites.

Health authorities now urge residents to be on alert for ticks that carry the virus, and observe precautions to avoid getting in contact with these bugs.

"It is imperative that all residents take every precaution necessary against tick-borne illnesses, especially during outdoor activities. Residents should vigilantly check themselves and their pets for ticks and tick bites," said Carol Smith, Ulster County Commissioner of Health and Mental Health.

Smith advised people who have to spend time outside to wear light-colored clothing, use insect repellents containing DEET and stick to well-traveled paths to avoid ticks and prevent tick bites.