For the first time this year, a person in Maine has tested positive for the rare tick-borne illness known as Powassan virus.
The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention says the person tested positive in Penobscot County, according to WGME-TV.
It is the first reported case of the virus in Maine this year.
“We are seeing about the third-highest rate of ticks that we’ve seen in the past 10 years right now,” Alison Hinckley of the National Center for Disease Control told NPR.
The Maine CDC says Powassan virus is rare but appears to be spreading.
The virus is transmitted by deer ticks.An estimated 40 cases of Powassan virus have been reported in Maine residents since 2000.
There are currently no vaccines or medications available to prevent Powassan virus.
Symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, and weakness.
Powassan virus can cause severe disease, including brain and spinal-cord inflammation.
Symptoms include confusion, loss of coordination, difficulty speaking, and seizures.
Approximately one of 10 people with severe disease die and half the survivors end up with long-term health problems.
The issues can include recurring headaches, loss of muscle mass and strength, or memory problems.
