New York Resident Dies From Rare Tick-Borne Virus Causing Brain Swelling, More Cases Reported In New Jersey
KINGSTON, N.Y. (CBSNewYork) – A person in New York has died after being bitten by a tick carrying a rare illness known for causing swelling in the brain.
According to officials in Ulster County, the victim was infected with Powassan virus and died in late July.
It's the first known case of this virus in New York so far this year. On average, fewer than six cases are diagnosed across the state.https://t.co/z3sTSQuAyT
— News 4 Buffalo (@news4buffalo) August 1, 2019
This is the first known case of Powassan virus in New York State this year. The resident lived in Gardiner -- about 80 miles north of New York City -- and had additional underlying health conditions according to Ulster health officials.
"It is imperative that all residents take every precaution necessary against tick-borne illnesses, especially during outdoor activities. Residents should vigilantly check themselves and their pets for ticks and tick bites," Dr. Carol Smith, the county's health commissioner said.
Tick bite victims infected with Powassan can experience several symptoms including fever, headache, vomiting, memory loss and – in the deadliest cases – swelling of the brain (encephalitis).
New Jersey health officials announced in June that two more cases of Powassan virus were diagnosed in Sussex County.
One of those patients later died.
The CDC says a tick must be attached to its victim for several hours before a life-threatening disease can be transmitted.