Vector-borne Disease Data Dashboard

This dashboard uses interactive data visualizations to display vector-borne disease case data (counts and incidence rates), emergency department visits for tick-related illness, and vector-borne pathogen (germ) data in mosquitoes and ticks.

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Powassan

Report Confirmed or Suspect Cases Immediately to the Local Health Department.

Powassan (POW) virus is transmitted to humans by infected ticks. Approximately 75 cases of POW virus disease were reported in the United States over the past 10 years. Most cases have occurred in the Northeast United States and Great Lakes regions. Signs and symptoms of infection can include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures, and memory loss. Long-term neurologic problems may occur. There is no specific treatment, but people with severe POW virus illnesses often need to be hospitalized to receive respiratory support, intravenous fluids, or medications to reduce swelling in the brain.

You can reduce your risk of being infected with POW virus by using tick repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, avoiding bushy and wooded areas, and doing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors. If you think you or a family member may have POW virus disease, it is important to consult your health care provider.

 

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Last Reviewed: 11/20/2023