Update: Two Wisconsinites dead, eight have been hospitalized with rare tick-borne Powassan Virus

MADISON, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – Two Wisconsinites have now died from a rare tickborne virus this year. 

Deer ticks spread Lyme disease, and they also spread the Powassan Virus. The virus is rare, but every year there’s a handful of cases here in Wisconsin. 

Officials at the Department of Health Services confirm to Civic Media that two people have now died from the virus. At least eight people spent time in the hospital. Staff said a total of nine people statewide are suspected or confirmed to have had the virus. 

The virus can cause mild illness, or it can cause neurological disorders and death. The symptoms are similar to viral encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain. 

“Fevers and headaches and malaise, not eating, not drinking, not communicating. So basically brain on fire symptoms,” Dr. James Thatcher said earlier this summer. Thatcher is a physician at the Aspirus Tick-Borne Illness Center. 

At the end of June, DHS staff announced one person had died from Powassan Virus, and three people had been hospitalized.  

Data shows over the last 20 years or so, the virus is most prevalent in the northern half of Wisconsin.

The best way to prevent the virus is to prevent tick bites in the first place. Health officials recommend repellent, and wearing long sleeves and long pants. Tucking pants into socks, so there’s no gap for ticks to access skin, can help too. Checking for ticks after being outdoors, especially in areas where they’re prevalent, can be life-saving.