Rhode Island Resident Stricken With Rare, Tick-Borne Virus

A Rhode Island man was diagnosed with a rare, tick-borne viral infection.

The Washington County man in his 60s was the state's third confirmed case of Powassan virus disease this year, according to the Rhode Island Department of Health.

Previously, a Newport County man in his 70s and a Providence man in his 60s were confirmed to have contracted Powassan this year, according to the Rhode Island Department of Health.

The initial symptoms of Powassan virus disease can include fever, headache, vomiting and weakness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr. Jerry Larkin, the state's director of health, warned in a media release of the dangers posed by ticks.

“We all need to be thinking about tick prevention measures when outdoors,” Larkin said.

“Repel and reduce your exposure to ticks, check your body for ticks, and be sure to remove ticks if you find one on yourself, a family member, or a pet," he said. "Ticks are tiny. You may not be able to feel them or spot them right away. The sooner you find and remove them, the better your chances are at preventing the serious health issues caused by illnesses like Powassan and Lyme Disease.”

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