Worse than Lyme: Tick-borne Powassan virus worries experts stat : The Today

share tweet pin emailAs if Lyme disease isn't troubling enough, a more serious tick-borne disease may be emerging, experts warn. Powassan virus, which is a far rarer and more deadly pathogen than the bacterium that produces Lyme, is also transmitted by the deer tick. "And it could be that it is emerging and will explode over the next few years."Lindsey, Nicole (CDC/OID/NCEZID) / CDC Where the Powassan virus is found in the U.S. Researchers found that 7 percent of adult ticks and about 10 percent of ticks in the nymph stage carried the Powassan virus. Closed Captioning ON OFF apply | reset x Text DisplayBackgroundEnhancements fontTimes New Roman Arial Comic SansT T T T sizecolor share link Tick season looms, spurring concerns about Lyme disease, Powassan virus Play Video - 3:29 Tick season looms, spurring concerns about Lyme disease, Powassan virus Play Video - 3:29So far, 75 instances of severe disease have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.




While nowhere near as prevalent, another tick-borne disease called Powassan virus carries a serious, sometimes fatal health risk. Both Lyme disease and Powassan virus present with flu-like symptoms and can progress to confusion and difficulty speaking. Though Lyme disease is the most prevalent — and most well-known — tick-borne virus, it isn't the only reason to take extra precautions when walking in the woods. According to the CDC, approximately 75 cases of Powassan virus have been reported over the past decade. We don't see a lot of cases," Paskewitz said.


Powassan Virus: Tick-borne virus can be transmitted in just minutes Health Powassan Virus: Tick-borne virus can be transmitted in just minutes A new health concern is brewing for tick bites. It's known as the Powassan Virus, and experts say it can be transmitted to humans in just minutes. However, with Powassan Virus, it can be spread within 15 minutes. Dr. Mike Cirigiliano appeared on Good Day Philadelphia Friday morning to discuss the virus and express his own concerns. Experts are concerned with the virus due to two mild winters leading to more acorns, Dr. Mike explained.


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