What is POW virus and how does it affect people
Powassan (POW) Virus is a rare, but often serious disease that is caused by a virus spread by infected ticks, according to the CDC.
Approximately 75 cases of POW virus disease were reported in the United States over the past 10 years, with most cases occurring in the Northeast and Great Lakes region.
Basically, POW virus is one of a group of arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) that can cause inflammation of the brain (encephalitis).
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Signs and symptoms of infection can include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures, and memory loss. Long-term neurological problems may occur, according to the CDC.
Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment, but people with severe POW virus illnesses often need to be hospitalized to receive respiratory support, intravenous fluids, or medications to reduce swelling in the brain.
People can reduce your risk of being infected with POW virus by using tick repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, avoiding bushy and wooded areas, and doing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors.
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