Tag

Tickborne Illness

All articles tagged with #tickborne illness

health4 months ago

IDPH Warns of Mosquito, Tick, and Bat Health Risks as Summer Arrives

IDPH warns warmer weather increases risks from mosquitoes, ticks, and bats. First West Nile virus–positive mosquito batches have appeared in Cook County; 2025 saw 150 human West Nile cases statewide. Tickborne diseases (including Powassan) are possible, and two bats tested positive for rabies in 2026. Prevent bites by reducing standing water, using EPA-registered repellents, wearing protective clothing, performing full-body tick checks, and vaccinating pets; contact health authorities if exposed to a bat or bitten by an animal.

Tickborne Illness Claims First Life in Maryland: Powassan Virus Death Reported
health2 years ago

Tickborne Illness Claims First Life in Maryland: Powassan Virus Death Reported

Maryland has reported its first death from the Powassan virus, a rare tickborne illness. The victim contracted the virus while traveling in Canada and subsequently returned to Maryland. The Powassan virus is not transmitted from person to person, except in rare instances through blood transfusion. Symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, and weakness, which can progress to a serious neurological condition. The Maryland Department of Health will launch a campaign to raise awareness about tick bites and prevention measures. The CDC has reported 28 cases of the Powassan virus in nine states.

Tickborne Meat Allergy Spreading: Alpha-gal Syndrome Cases Surge in Wisconsin and Oklahoma
health3 years ago

Tickborne Meat Allergy Spreading: Alpha-gal Syndrome Cases Surge in Wisconsin and Oklahoma

Alpha-gal syndrome, a tickborne illness, is on the rise and individuals should be aware of its symptoms and take preventive measures. This condition, caused by the bite of the Lone Star tick, can lead to allergic reactions to red meat and other mammalian products. It is important to be cautious when spending time outdoors, use insect repellent, and check for ticks to reduce the risk of contracting this syndrome.

Tick Troubles: Rising Lyme Disease Cases and ER Visits Spark Concern in US
health3 years ago

Tick Troubles: Rising Lyme Disease Cases and ER Visits Spark Concern in US

The tick population in Delaware is on the rise due to milder winters and expanding residential development, bringing people closer to tick habitats. Neighbors in Sussex County have had to change their outdoor activities to avoid tick bites. Ticks can carry diseases such as Lyme disease, but reported cases of tickborne illness have not increased significantly. Public health officials advise taking preventive measures to protect against tick bites.

Kansas resident diagnosed with rare tick-borne illness.
health3 years ago

Kansas resident diagnosed with rare tick-borne illness.

A resident of Crawford County, Kansas, has been diagnosed with Heartland Virus Disease, a rare tickborne illness transmitted by the bite of an infected Lone Star Tick. This is the first case of Heartland in Crawford County and only the third case identified in Kansas since the virus was discovered in northwest Missouri in 2009. Symptoms of Heartland are vague and include fever, fatigue, muscle or joint pain, headache and occasionally a rash. The discovery of this case of Heartland should serve as a reminder to take precautions when taking part in outdoor activities.

First Fatal Case of Powassan Virus Confirmed in Maine
health3 years ago

First Fatal Case of Powassan Virus Confirmed in Maine

An adult from Sagadahoc County, Maine, died from the Powassan virus, a tickborne illness transmitted through the bite of an infected deer or woodchuck tick. This is the first case of the virus identified in the state this year and the third deadly case since 2015. Powassan symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures, or memory loss, and some people may experience serious neurologic problems. About 10% of people with severe disease die. If you experience any of these symptoms after a tick bite, call a health care provider as soon as possible.

Tickborne Illnesses on the Rise in Northeast and Michigan
health3 years ago

Tickborne Illnesses on the Rise in Northeast and Michigan

Tickborne illnesses, including Lyme disease and babesiosis, have reached endemic levels in the Northeast region of the United States, with tick cases at record highs. Veterinarian Mike Dyer urges pet owners to be proactive about tick prevention for themselves and their pets, including getting the Lyme vaccine and using flea and tick products recommended by their veterinarian. Excessive itching in pets can be an indicator of tick infestation.