We’re writing about the dangers of ticks again. We’re not being alarmist- ticks carry harmful and sometimes deadly diseases that cause major problems for people.
A few days ago, a tick carrying the Powassan Virus bit a teenager in Upstate New York, leading to his death. We’re saddened by the news and extend all condolences to his family and friends. We hope that this event can at minimum can be a lesson for others to watch out for these dangerous insects and wear long sleeves and long pants when in the woods. CBS-2 reported:
Officials Warn Of Dangers Of Tick-Borne Powassan Virus
Dangerous Virus Is Deadly In 30 Percent Of Cases
August 19, 2013 5:23 PM
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) — A Poughkeepsie high school senior died suddenly, after he was bitten by a tick and contracted a severe virus.
As CBS 2’s Jennifer McLogan reported, Joseph Elone’s family said doctors had been treating their son for a summer cold – until he collapsed on the front lawn………..
Doctors advise taking no chances if you have trouble breathing or experience disorientation. “Severe headache, fevers, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches” are also signs of danger, said Dr. Susan Donelan of Stony Brook University Medical Center. There is currently no treatment for Powassan, which is fatal in 30 percent of cases. New York State lawmakers are now pushing for more federal dollars to combat the illness.
U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) has reminded the public just how dangerous the virus can be. “It’s not your average Lyme disease. It’s transmitted within 15 minutes of the bite. Lyme disease, if you see a tick on you and pull it off within 24 hours you won’t get it,” Schumer said last week of Powassan virus. “For Powassan, you have a one out of three chance of actually dying if you get bitten by it. It’s a deadly disease and there is no cure.”