An adult from Sagadahoc County is the first person from Maine to die from Powassan virus disease this year, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control & Prevention.
Powassan virus is transmitted through deer or woodchuck ticks.
While the disease can be fatal, Maine CDC estimates about 10% of those experiencing a severe form of the disease die.
Maine CDC’s announcement noted the disease is rare. Since 2015, there have been only 25 cases per year nationwide. Maine has had 15 cases since 2015, with two deaths last year.
Maine CDC stated it can take between one week and one month before someone bitten by an infected tick would show symptoms, with some people not having any symptoms at all. Symptoms, according to Maine CDC, include “fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures, or memory loss.”
Maine CDC reminded the public that ticks are active in Maine, and offered several recommendations to the public to protect against ticks, including:
Know where ticks live, typically in leafy, wooded areas.
When venturing into areas where ticks live, be sure to wear light-colored clothing that covers the arms and legs and tuck pant cuffs into socks.
Use insect repellants. Maine CDC recommended “an EPA-approved repellent like DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on skin.” Maine CDC also suggested using permethrin on clothing.
Be sure to check yourself, family members and pets after being outside.
Ask your veterinarian about how best to protect your pets.
After being outside, remove clothing and put it in the dryer on high heat for 10-15 minutes before washing.