Powassan virus

Powassan Virus

Powassan virus (pronounced: pow-uh-sun) is a Flavivirus that can cause a severe and potentially fatal neurological disease in humans. The virus is named after the town of Powassan, Ontario, where it was first identified in 1958.

Etymology

The Powassan virus is named after the town of Powassan, Ontario, where the virus was first identified in a young boy who eventually died from severe encephalitis. The virus is also known as POWV and is a member of the Flaviviridae family of viruses.

Transmission

Powassan virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick. The primary vectors are the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis) and the groundhog tick (Ixodes cookei). Unlike other tick-borne diseases, transmission of the Powassan virus can occur within 15 minutes of the tick's attachment.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Powassan virus infection can include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures, and memory loss. Long-term neurological damage may occur and the disease can be fatal. There is currently no specific treatment for Powassan virus disease, only supportive care.

Prevention

Prevention of Powassan virus infection primarily involves avoiding tick bites through the use of repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, and performing regular tick checks after being in wooded or bushy areas.

Related Terms

• Flavivirus
• Flaviviridae
• Tick
• Ixodes scapularis
• Ixodes cookei
• Encephalitis

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Powassan virus
• Wikipedia's article - Powassan virus

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