Rare, Potentially Fatal Tick-Borne Virus Confirmed In CT

CONNECTICUT — A Connecticut resident is recovering after being infected with the rare and sometimes fatal Powassan virus. It's the state's first confirmed infection in 2022.

The man is in his 50s and lives in Windham. He had a known tick bite and became ill in late March, officials said. He was hospitalized with a central nervous system disease and is now recovering at home.

"The identification of a Connecticut resident with Powassan virus associated illness emphasizes the need to take actions to prevent tick bites from now through the late fall," said DPH Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani. "Using insect repellent, avoiding areas where ticks are likely, and checking carefully for ticks after being outside can reduce the chance of you or your children being infected with this virus."

There were 12 confirmed Powassan viral infections between 2017 and 2021 in Connecticut. Of those, two were fatal.

The virus is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged or deer tick, Juthani said. It takes a week to a month after the bite to develop symptoms of the disease. The virus can be transmitted in as little as 15 minutes by an infected tick bite.

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Most people infected with the virus experience little or no symptoms or a flu-like illness. However, some people develop severe central nervous system issues. About 10 percent of serious cases are fatal, and half of survivors experience long-term health problems.

State health officials recommend that people avoid areas where ticks are likely to be, such as grassy or wooded areas. CDC-recommended repellents should be used when outdoors. People should check themselves and their children for tickets immediately after coming indoors. Showering within two hours after coming indoors can be effective in reducing tick-borne illness.

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