Maine reports first Powassan virus death of the year, raising awareness.

The first fatal case of Powassan virus disease in 2023 has been confirmed in Maine, according to officials. The tick-borne illness was found in an adult resident from Sagadahoc County who developed neurological symptoms and died in the hospital after becoming infected. Powassan virus can be transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected deer tick or woodchuck tick, and symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures, or even memory loss. Health officials encourage anyone who experiences symptoms after a bite to contact their healthcare provider and recommend ways to avoid tick-borne diseases, including wearing insect repellent with DEET and avoiding tall grass.