Pair of Maine Residents Contract Powassan Virus

Two Maine residents recently contracted a rare virus transmitted primarily through deer tick bites, prompting state officials to urge Mainers to be cautious and vigilant while outdoors.

The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday that it had been notified about two cases of the Powassan virus, sometimes called the deer tick virus. Both people were hospitalized with encephalitis in late April but have since been released and are recovering.

“Powassan, although rare, can be serious so it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take steps to avoid being bitten by ticks,” state epidemiologist Dr. Siiri Bennett said in a statement. “Ticks are found in wooded and bushy areas so use caution if you go into these areas.”

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Source: Press Herald