A Maynard resident was recently diagnosed with the Powassan virus, a deadly tick-borne illness, according to Town Administrator Greg Johnson and the Maynard Public Health Division.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Powassan virus is rare but often severe. The virus can cause encephalitis, a potentially fatal swelling of the brain, or meningitis, inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord that can be life-threatening. Read more from WCVB news 5

What is Powassan virus?

Powassan virus causes a rare, but often serious disease, and is spread by the bite of tiny, infected black-legged (deer) ticks. There are two types of Powassan virus in the United States. One type is found in ticks that normally feed on woodchucks (groundhogs); the second type is carried by black-legged ticks, the same ticks that can also carry the germs that cause Lyme disease, babesiosis and anaplasmosis.

Where do cases of Powassan virus disease occur?

Although approximately 100 cases of Powassan infection have been reported in the last 10 years in the United States, most of those cases have occurred in the Northeast and the Upper Midwest. There have been 16 cases of Powassan virus infection in Massachusetts in the last 10 years.Read more Mass.gov

Author: mkmcst

Nockedup Massachusetts Outdoors extends a warm welcome to all visitors. Experience the beauty and adventure that the great outdoors of Massachusetts has to offer. Join us in exploring the diverse landscapes and activities available in this vibrant region.