Dangerous Tick Disease, Powassan Virus Has Been Confirmed in Massachusetts

Several ticks in the Bay State have tested positive for Powassan virus. This tick disease recently took the life of a 90-year-old Connecticut woman, according to scientists at Tick Report in Amherst, a tick testing firm in western Massachusetts. Every week, they examine hundreds of ticks for the Powassan virus. With tick season starting earlier each year, it is imperative to understand just how dangerous this threat is.

The Lyme bacteria and the far rarer Powassan virus are transmitted mainly through deer ticks. As reported by Western Mass News, Paul Killinger of Tick Report stated that the results might not signify much due to the small sample size. It is still early in the year, but the lab is keeping a close eye on it given the recent fatal case of Powassan virus in Connecticut.

The Dangers of This Tick Disease

Some individuals who contract the Powassan virus never develop any symptoms, while others have serious neurological and memory disorders, including encephalitis or meningitis, where 50% of these disorders are permanent. Symptoms include fevers, headaches, vomiting, weakness, disorientation, speech problems, and seizures that may appear anywhere from a week to a month following the bite.

There is currently no cure or vaccination for the tick disease, and 10-15% of cases are fatal for individuals who contract the most severe form. The likelihood of disease transmission from a tick increases the longer it feeds.

Practice Tick Control to Protect Your Family

With tick-borne diseases so concerning, you must take precautions when heading into areas of exposure to ticks. Dress in layers to deter ticks from biting. Make use of DEET-based insect repellents. You can prevent ticks by using the 6 C’s of Tick Control in your yard. Remember to contact Mosquito Squad of Southeastern Massachusetts. Our expert barrier treatment and tick tube systems are 85-90% effective in reducing your risk of all tick-borne diseases. Let us help you develop a strategy that will allow you to spend more time in your beloved yard with your loved ones.

Call on Mosquito Squad to Clear Out Ticks

Protect yourself and your family from ticks this season. Follow the 6 C’s of tick control to reduce the risks of creating an ample habitat for ticks in your yard. Mosquito Squad of Southeastern Massachusetts can help create a more enjoyable outdoor experience in your yard. Contact us online or call us at (774) 234-4611 for your free quote.