Maine confirms 1st death from rare tick-borne disease in 2023

A Maine resident died from Powassan virus, a rare tick-borne disease, the state’s Center for Disease Control and Prevention said May 17. 

Advertisement

The adult developed neurologic symptoms and was likely infected in Maine, the department said. Since 2012, the U.S. has reported 189 Powassan virus cases, according to the CDC. Of those cases, fatality rates hover between zero percent and 9 percent. 

The Sagadahoc County, Maine, resident who died was the state’s first Powassan case reported in 2023. Maine has reported two other deaths from the virus, both in 2022.

There are no approved therapies or vaccines for the rare virus that can be acquired through bites from infected deer ticks and woodchuck ticks, according to the CDC. 

Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit

Advertisement

Next Up in Infection Control

Advertisement

Comments are closed.