The Powassan Virus a Review, A killer Tick, !!
El Virus de Powassan, Revision, Una garrapata que mata. !!
EDITORIAL ENGLISH
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Hello friends of the DERMAGIC EXPRESS network brings you today another
interesting topic related to TICKS and the transmission of VIRUS. In this case
it is the POWASSAN VIRUS (POWV), THE REVIEW. Virus widely distributed in nature
that was isolated and discovered in the village of POWASSAN, in 1.958 locality of
ONTARIO (CANADA), in a young man who died of the infection. Subsequently
described in CANADA IN 1.998 and in other countries.
The virus has been found in many areas of our planet: it is practically
spread throughout the Continent of North America, Russia, and Central Asia,
being isolated in regions such as:
1.) UNITED STATES: NEW YORK, CALIFORNIA, COLORADO, DAKOTA, WISCONSIN, NEW
ENGLAND: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and
Connecticut. ROCKY MOUNTAINS.
2.) MEXICO: Sonora.
3.) RUSSIA.
4.) CENTRAL ASIA,
The virus POWASSAN (POWv) is also found in warm weather through EUROPE and
ASIA, where it is part of the tick-borne ENCEPHALITIS virus complex. In other
words, it is widely distributed in nature.
It is an RNA virus of the family FLAVIVIRIDAE, genus FLAVIVIRUS, species:
POWASSAN VIRUS. After being discovered began to report cases of this disease
whose predominant symptom is ENCEPHALITIS, with a 10% mortality and 50% of those
affected with neurological squeal. So that it is not a "SIMPLE" virus, it is a
"LETAL" virus that can cause you to DIE.
LINEAGE I
The vector: TICKS, among which stand out: IXODES COOKEI, and IXODES SCAPULARIS, also IXODES MARXI, IXODES SPINIPALPUS and other ticks as: DERMACENTOR ANDERSONI AND DERMACENTOR VARIABILIS.
NOW I WILL TELL YOU THE ANIMALS that are part of this disease which is an ENZOOTIC, which means that it is distributed in several or many species of animals in some region and transmitted to the human by a vector, in this case THE TICKS.
The POWASSAN VIRUS (POWv) is considered as explained by a VIRUS RNA, which
is divided into 2 COMPLEXES or LINEAGES, each with a different enzootic cycle:
LINEAGE I
1.) LINEAGE I: CONSIDERED AS THE "PROTOTYPE" which is linked to the TICK IXODES COOKEI and is presented mainly in the WOODCHUCKS (Marmot Momax), STRIPED SHUNKS (Mephitis mephitis) and also the WHITE-FOOD LEGS MOUSE (Peromyscus Leucopus). (see photos).
LINEAGE II
2.) LINEAGE II: Which has the greatest genetic variation and is linked to TICK IXODES SCAPULARIS and is presented mainly in DEER being denominated VIRUS DEER TICK (VDT). (View the first photo)
Also POWASSAN virus (POWv) has been isolated from other animals such as:
THE RACCOON (Procyon lotor), COYOTES (Canis Latrans), and FOXES.
Both LINEAGES have had confirmed cases of POWASSAN VIRUS (POWv) disease in
both North America and Russia. The viruses of both LINEAGES belong to the same
viral species, there is only difference in the composition of the RNA and it is
believed that the "DIVERGED" of both viruses occurred more than 200 years ago.
In conslusion two lineages are “serologically indistinguishable".
Before continuing I will tell you that it has been ISOLATED from the TICK
IXODES SCAPULARIS POWASSAN VIRUS (POWv / DTV) and the "FEARED" BORRELIA
BURGDORFERI, causing the LYME DISEASE, in fact the geographic distribution for
both is the same.
In other words we are fighting against a LEGION OF TICKS that transmit
THE POWASSN VIRUS (POWv) that causes a SEVERE ENCEPHALITIS, AND THE BORRELIA
BURGODORFERI, SPIROCHAET, that causes the already known LYME DISEASE, Which is a
tremendous health problem in the Northern Hemisphere today.
LINEAGE II
SYMPTOMS OF POWASSAN VIRUS INFECTION:
INITIAL STAGE:
=============
THE SYMPTOMS CAN BE PRESENTED BETWEEN 1 WEEK AND 1 MONTH AFTER THE BIT OF
THE INFECTED TICK:
1.) FEVER.
2.) HEADACHE.
3.) NAUSEAS.
4.) WEAKNESS.
5.) CONFUSION.
6.) VOMITING.
7.) LOSS OF MEMORY.
8.) SEIZURES
SEVERE STAGE:
==============
POWASSAN VIRUS (POWv) CAN ATTACK THE NERVOUS SYSTEM PRODUCING BRAIN
INFLAMMATION:
1.) LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS.
2.) MENINGITIS.
3.) ENCEPHALITIS: MORTALITY 10%, 50% OF THE SURVIVORS HAVE PERMANET
NEUROLOGICAL SEQUELS: RECURRENT HEADACHE, MUSCLE WEAKNESS, MEMORY PROBLEMS.
Unlike LYME DISEASE, the POWASSAN virus has NO SPECIFIC TREATMENT, OR NO
VACCINE. Treatment is symptomatic. Another detail is that virus transmission is
faster than in LYME DISEASE where the TICK must be adhered to the skin between
36 and 48 hours. In the case of POWASSAN only in a few hours the VIRUS is
transmitted by the bite.
LYME DISEASE if not treated in time can also produce inflammation of the
brain and give symptoms known today as NEUROBORRELIOSIS. The number of cases of
POWASSAN VIRUS (POWv) is much smaller than LYME DISEASE. But both diseases can
cause DEATH and leave NEUROLOGICAL SEQUELS.
The diagnosis of POWASSAN VIRUS is done by the test: Reverse Transcriptase
Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR).
Given these facts, we can conclude that our population is not being
invaded by "ALIENS", here the only "ALIENS" are these TICKS that step by step
want to diminish the existence of HUMANITY.
As an anecdotal fact I can also conclude that the human "INVADED" the
territory of these animals (Deer, woodchucks, coyote, raccoon, skunk, fox, etc.)
even made ZOO where people go to see them. Many of them are in captivity and are
carriers of TICKS transmitting LYME DISEASE and POWASSAN VIRUS.
Here is the great PROBLEM with these two diseases, both transmitted by TICKS, because if the patient does NOT have ENCEPHALITIS, it can easily be confused with LYME DISEASE, (the symptomatology is similar), whose serologic diagnosis we know is difficult, because of the capacity of The SPIROCHETA to "EVADE" the laboratory tests. In both cases, a good medical history must be made and definitely the laboratory tests will say whether it is POWASSAN VIRUS OR LYME DISEASE. So that...
"... NOT ALL BITTEN BY TICKS IN ZONES WHERE LYME'S DISEASE IS ENDEMIC INDICATE THAT IS BORRELIA... COULD BE THE POWASSAN VIRUS ..."
Therefore the best way to combat this pest must be directed to "ELIMINATE"
where possible the TICKS to avoid being bitten by them.
In the references, the facts, in the attach some of the animals and
vectors.
I want to thank all the people who fight every day against LYME DISEASE
and especially the people of Madison Area Lyme Support Group.
Greetings to all.
Dr. José Lapenta.
EDITORIAL ESPAÑOL
=================
Hola amigos de la red DERMAGIC EXPRESS te trae hoy otro interesante tema relacionado con LAS GARRAPATAS y la transmisión de VIRUS. En este caso se trata del VIRUS DE POWASSAN (POWv), LA REVISION. Virus ampliamente distribuido en la naturaleza que fue aislado y descubierto en el pueblo de POWASSAN, en 1.958 localidad de ONTARIO,(CANADA) en un joven quien murió de por la infección. Posteriormente descrito en CANADA EN 1.998 y en otros países.
El virus se ha encontrado en en numerosas aéreas de nuestro planeta: prácticamente se encuentra diseminado en todo el continente de América del Norte, Rusia, y Asia Central, siendo aislados en regiones como:
1.) ESTADOS UNIDOS: NUEVA YORK, CALIFORNIA, COLORADO, DAKOTA, WISCONSIN, NUEVA INGLATERRA: Maine, Nuevo Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island y Connecticut. MONTAÑAS ROCOSAS.
2.) MEXICO: Sonora.
3.) RUSIA.
4.) ASIA CENTRAL,
El virus POWASSAN(POWv) también se encuentra en el clima cálido a través de EUROPA Y ASIA, donde es parte del complejo de virus de la ENCEFALITIS transmitida por garrapatas. En otras palabras, está ampliamente distribuido en la naturaleza.
Se trata de un virus tipo ARN de la familia FLAVIVIRIDAE, genus FLAVIVIRUS, especie: POWASSAN VIRUS. Luego de ser descubierto comenzaron a reportarse casos de esta enfermedad cuyo sintoma predominante es la ENCEFALITIS, con un 10% de mortalidad y el 50% de los afectados queda con secuelas neurologicas. De modo de que no se trata de un "SIMPLE" virus, se trata de un virus "LETAL" el cual puede causarte la muerte.
El vector: GARRAPATAS, entre las que se destacan IXODES COOKEI, y IXODES SCAPULARIS, también IXODES MARXI, IXODES SPINIPALPUS y otras garrapatas como: DERMACENTOR ANDERSONI Y DERMACENTOR VARIABILIS.
AHORA TE HABLARE DE LOS ANIMALES QUE forman parte de esta enfermedad la cual es una ENZOOTIA, lo cual significa que está distribuida en varias o muchas especies de animales en una determinada región y transmitida al humano por un vector, en este caso LA GARRAPATA.
Se considera al VIRUS DE POWASSAN (POWv) como ya te lo explique un RNA VIRUS, el cual está dividido en 2 COMPLEJOS O LINAJES, cada uno con un ciclo enzootico diferente:
1.) LINAJE I: CONSIDERADO COMO EL "PROTOTIPO" el cual está vinculado a la GARRAPATA IXODES COOKEI y se presenta principalmente en las MARMOTAS (Marmota Momax)), LA MOFETA RAYADA (Mephitis mephitis) y también en el RATON DE PATAS BLANCAS. (Ver fotos)
2.) LINAJE II: El cual tiene la mayor variación genética y está vinculado a la GARRAPATA IXODES SCAPULARIS y se presenta principalmente en CIERVOS O VENADOS siendo denominado VIRUS DE LA GARRAPATA DEL CIERVO (DTV= Deer Tick Virus).
También el virus de POWASSAN(POWv) ha sido aislado de otros animales como: EL MAPACHE (Procyon lotor), COYOTES (Canis Latrans), y ZORROS.
Ambos LINAJES han tenido casos confirmados de enfermedad por el VIRUS DE POWASSAN(POWv) tanto en América del Norte como en Rusia. Los virus de ambos LINAJES pertenecen a la misma especie viral, solo hay diferencia en la composición del ARN y se cree que la "DIVISION" de ambos virus ocurrió hace mas de 200 años. En conclusión los dos LINAJES son "serológicamente indistinguibles".
Antes de continuar te contare que ha sido AISLADA de la GARRAPATA IXODES SCAPULARIS EL VIRUS DE POWASSAN(POWv/DTV) y la "TEMIDA" BORRELIA BURGDORFERI, causante de la ENFERMEDAD DE LYME, de hecho la distribución geográfica para ambas es la misma.
En otras palabras estamos luchando contra una LEGION DE GARRAPATAS que transmiten EL VIRUS DE POWASSN(POWv) que causa una ENCEFALITIS GRAVE, Y LA ESPIROQUETA BORRELIA BURGODORFERI, que ocasiona la ya CONOCIDA ENFERMEDAD DE LYME, la cual es un tremendo problema de salud en el Hemisferio Norte hoy dia.
SINTOMAS DE LA INFECCION POR EL VIRUS DE POWASSAN:
ETAPA INICIAL:
=============
LOS SINTOMAS PUEDEN PRESENTARSE ENTRE 1 SEMANA Y 1 MES LUEGO DE LA PICADURA DE LA GARRAPATA INFECTADA:
1.) FIEBRE.
2.) DOLOR DE CABEZA.
3.) NAUSEAS.
4.) DEBILIDAD.
5.) CONFUSION.
6.) VOMITOS.
7.) PERDIDA DE LA MEMORIA.
8.) CONVULSIONES.
ETAPA SEVERA:
============
EL VIRUS DE POWASSAN(POWv) ATACA EL SISTEMA NERVIOSO PRODUCIENDO INFLAMACION CEREBRAL:
1.) PERDIDA DE LA CONCIENCIA.
2.) MENINGITIS.
3.) ENCEFALITIS: MORTALIDAD 10%, EL 50% QUEDA CON SECUELAS NEUROLOGICAS: DOLOR DE CABEZA RECURRENTE, DEBILIDAD MUSCULAR, PROBLEMAS DE LA MEMORIA.
A diferencia de la ENFERMEDAD DE LYME el virus de POWASSAN NO TIENE TRATAMIENTO ESPECIFICO NI EXISTE VACUNA CONTRA EL MISMO. El tratamiento es sintomático. Otro detalle es que la transmisión del virus es mas rápido que en la ENFERMEDAD DE LYME donde la GARRAPATA debe estar adherida a la piel entre 36 y 48 horas. En el caso de POWASSAN solo en pocas horas el VIRUS es transmitido por la picadura.
LA ENFERMEDAD DE LYME si no es tratada a tiempo también puede producir inflamación del cerebro y dar síntomas conocidos hoy día como NEUROBORRELIOSIS. El número de casos del VIRIS DE POWASSAN(POWv), es mucho menor que la ENFERMEDAD DE LYME. Pero ambas enfermedades pueden causar la MUERTE y dejar SECUELAS NEUROLOGICAS.
El diagnostico del VIRUS DE POWASSAN se hace mediante la prueba: Reacción en Cadena de Polimerasa de Transcriptasa Reversa (RT-PCR).
Ante estos hechos descritos previamente, podemos concluir que nuestra población no está siendo invadida por "EXTRATERRESTRES", aquí los únicos "ALIENS" son estas GARRAPATAS que paso a paso quieren disminuir la existencia de la HUMANIDAD.
Como hecho anecdótico también puedo concluir que el ser humano "INVADIO" el territorio de estos animales (Ciervo, venado, marmota, coyote, mapache, mofeta, etc.) incluso hizo ZOOLOGICOS donde la gente va a verlos. Muchos de ellos están en cautiverio y son portadores de GARRAPATAS que transmiten ENFERMEDAD DE LYME Y VIRUS DE POWASSAN.
He aquí el gran PROBLEMA con estas dos enfermedades, ambas transmitidas por GARRAPATAS, porque si el paciente NO presenta ENCEFALITIS, puede fácilmente confundirse con ENFERMEDAD DE LYME, (la sintomatología es parecida), cuyo diagnostico serológico sabemos que es difícil, por la capacidad de la ESPIROQUETA de "ESCONDERSE" ante las pruebas de laboratorio. En ambos casos hay que hacer una buena historia clínica y definitivamente las pruebas de laboratorio dirán si se trata del VIRUS DE POWASSAN O ENFERMEDAD DE LYME. De modo que...
"... NO TODO PICADO POR GARRAPATA EN ZONAS DONDE LA ENFERMEDAD DE LYME ES ENDEMICA INDICAN QUE SEA UNA BORRELIA... PODRIA TRATARSE DEL VIRUS DE POWASSAN..."
Por ello la mejor manera de combatir esta plaga debe estar dirigida a "ELIMINAR" en lo posible las GARRAPATAS para evitar ser mordido por ellas.
En las referencias, los hechos, en el adjunto fotos de algunos animales y vectores.
Quiero dar las gracias a toda la gente que pelea día a día contra la ENFERMEDAD de LYME y muy especialmente a la gente de Madison Area Lyme Support Group.
Saludos a todos.
Dr. José Lapenta
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REFERENCIAS BIBLIOGRAFICAS/ BIBLIOGRAPHICAL REFERENCES
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1.) Serologic Evidence of Powassan Virus Infection in Patients with Suspected Lyme Disease1.
2.) Potential role of deer tick virus in Powassan encephalitis cases in Lyme disease-endemic areas of New York, U.S.A.
3.) Emerging Cases of Powassan Virus Encephalitis in New England: Clinical Presentation, Imaging, and Review of the Literature.
4.) Powassan Virus: An Emerging Arbovirus of Public Health Concern in North America.
5.) Tick Saliva Enhances Powassan Virus Transmission to the Host, Influencing Its Dissemination and the Course of Disease.
6.) Isolation of deer tick virus (Powassan virus, lineage II) from Ixodes scapularis and detection of antibody in vertebrate hosts sampled in the Hudson Valley, New York State.
7.) Powassan/Deer Tick Virus and Borrelia Burgdorferi Infection in Wisconsin Tick Populations.
8.) Powassan meningoencephalitis, New York, New York, USA.
9.) Powassan Virus
10.) Tickborne Powassan virus infections among Wisconsin residents.
11.) Prevalence and genetic characterization of Powassan virus strains infecting Ixodes scapularis in Connecticut.
12.) Increased recognition of Powassan encephalitis in the United States, 1999-2005.
13.) Another Dies From Powassan / New York Man Dies From Tick Carrying Brain Swelling Virus
14.) Powassan virus encephalitis, Minnesota, USA.
15.) Powassan virus in mammals, Alaska and New Mexico, U.S.A., and Russia, 2004-2007.
16.) Tick-borne encephalitis among U.S. travelers to Europe and Asia - 2000-2009.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
17.) Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus in Ticks and Roe Deer, the Netherlands.
18.) Stable prevalence of Powassan virus in Ixodes scapularis in a northern Wisconsin focus.
19.) Seroprevalence of Powassan virus in New England deer, 1979-2010.
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1.) Serologic Evidence of Powassan Virus Infection in Patients with Suspected Lyme Disease1.
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Emerg Infect Dis. 2017 Aug;23(8):1384-1388. doi: 10.3201/eid2308.161971.
Frost HM, Schotthoefer AM, Thomm AM, Dupuis AP 2nd, Kehl SC, Kramer LD, Fritsche TR, Harrington YA, Knox KK.
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) lineage II is an emerging tickborne flavivirus with an unknown seroprevalence in humans. In a Lyme disease-endemic area, we examined the seroreactivity to POWV in 2 patient cohorts and described the clinical features of the POWV-seroreactive patients. POWV disease might be less neuroinvasive than previously thought.
KEYWORDS:
Lyme disease; Powassan virus; United States; deer tick virus; encephalitis viruses; meningitis/encephalitis; serology; tick-borne encephalitis; tickborne; vector-borne infections; viruses; zoonoses
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2.) Potential role of deer tick virus in Powassan encephalitis cases in Lyme disease-endemic areas of New York, U.S.A.
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Emerg Infect Dis. 2013 Dec;19(12):1926-33. doi: 10.3201/eid1912.130903.
El Khoury MY, Camargo JF, White JL, Backenson BP, Dupuis AP 2nd, Escuyer KL, Kramer L, St George K, Chatterjee D, Prusinski M, Wormser GP, Wong SJ.
Abstract
Powassan virus, a member of the tick-borne encephalitis group of flaviviruses, encompasses 2 lineages with separate enzootic cycles. The prototype lineage of Powassan virus (POWV) is principally maintained between Ixodes cookei ticks and the groundhog (Marmota momax) or striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), whereas the deer tick virus (DTV) lineage is believed to be maintained between Ixodes scapularis ticks and the white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus). We report 14 cases of Powassan encephalitis from New York during 2004-2012. Ten (72%) of the patients were residents of the Lower Hudson Valley, a Lyme disease-endemic area in which I. scapularis ticks account for most human tick bites. This finding suggests that many of these cases were caused by DTV rather than POWV. In 2 patients, DTV infection was confirmed by genetic sequencing. As molecular testing becomes increasingly available, more cases of Powassan encephalitis may be determined to be attributable to the DTV lineage.
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3.) Emerging Cases of Powassan Virus Encephalitis in New England: Clinical Presentation, Imaging, and Review of the Literature.
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Piantadosi A1, Rubin DB2, McQuillen DP3, Hsu L4, Lederer PA1, Ashbaugh CD5, Duffalo C6, Duncan R3, Thon J2, Bhattacharyya S2, Basgoz N1, Feske SK2, Lyons JL2.
Author information
1
Division of Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital.
2
Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston.
3
Department of Infectious Diseases, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Burlington.
4
Department of Radiology.
5
Division of Infectious Disease, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.
6
Christiana Care Health System, Division of Infectious Diseases, Newark, Delaware.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Powassan virus (POWV) is a rarely diagnosed cause of encephalitis in the United States. In the Northeast, it is transmitted by Ixodes scapularis, the same vector that transmits Lyme disease. The prevalence of POWV among animal hosts and vectors has been increasing. We present 8 cases of POWV encephalitis from Massachusetts and New Hampshire in 2013-2015.
METHODS:
We abstracted clinical and epidemiological information for patients with POWV encephalitis diagnosed at 2 hospitals in Massachusetts from 2013 to 2015. We compared their brain imaging with those in published findings from Powassan and other viral encephalitides.
RESULTS:
The patients ranged in age from 21 to 82 years, were, for the most part, previously healthy, and presented with syndromes of fever, headache, and altered consciousness. Infections occurred from May to September and were often associated with known tick exposures. In all patients, cerebrospinal fluid analyses showed pleocytosis with elevated protein. In 7 of 8 patients, brain magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated deep foci of increased T2/fluid-attenuation inversion recovery signal intensity.
CONCLUSIONS:
We describe 8 cases of POWV encephalitis in Massachusetts and New Hampshire in 2013-2015. Prior to this, there had been only 2 cases of POWV encephalitis identified in Massachusetts. These cases may represent emergence of this virus in a region where its vector, I. scapularis, is known to be prevalent or may represent the emerging diagnosis of an underappreciated pathogen. We recommend testing for POWV in patients who present with encephalitis in the spring to fall in New England.
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4.) Powassan Virus: An Emerging Arbovirus of Public Health Concern in North America.
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Hermance ME1, Thangamani S1,2,3.
Author information
1
1 Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch , Galveston, Texas.
2
2 Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch , Galveston, Texas.
3
3 Center for Tropical Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch , Galveston, Texas.
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV, Flaviviridae) is the only North American member of the tick-borne encephalitis serogroup of flaviviruses. It is transmitted to small- and medium-sized mammals by Ixodes scapularis, Ixodes cookei, and several other Ixodes tick species. Humans become infected with POWV during spillover transmission from the natural transmission cycles. In humans, POWV is the causative agent of a severe neuroinvasive illness with 50% of survivors displaying long-term neurological sequelae. POWV was recognized as a human pathogen in 1958 when a young boy died of severe encephalitis in Powassan, Ontario, and POWV was isolated from the brain autopsy of this case. Two distinct genetic lineages of POWV are now recognized: POWV (lineage I) and deer tick virus (lineage II). Since the index case in 1958, over 100 human cases of POWV have been reported, with an apparent rise in disease incidence in the past 16 years. This recent increase in cases may represent a true emergence of POWV in regions where the tick vector species are prevalent, or it could represent an increase in POWV surveillance and diagnosis. In the past 5 years, both basic and applied research for POWV disease has intensified, including phylogenetic studies, field surveillance, case studies, and animal model development. This review provides an overview of POWV, including the epidemiology, transmission, clinical disease, and diagnosis of POWV infection. Recent research developments and future priorities with regard to the disease are emphasized.
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5.) Tick Saliva Enhances Powassan Virus Transmission to the Host, Influencing Its Dissemination and the Course of Disease.
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J Virol. 2015 Aug;89(15):7852-60. doi: 10.1128/JVI.01056-15. Epub 2015 May 20.
Hermance ME1, Thangamani S2.
Author information
1
Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA.
2
Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA sathanga@utmb.edu.
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is an encephalitic tick-borne flavivirus which can result in serious neuroinvasive disease with up to a 10% case fatality rate. The study objective was to determine whether the salivary gland extract (SGE) from Ixodes scapularis ticks facilitates the transmission and dissemination of POWV in a process known as saliva-activated transmission. Groups of BALB/c mice were footpad inoculated with either a high dose of POWV with and without SGE or a low dose of POWV with and without SGE. Mice from each group were sacrificed daily. Organ viral loads and gene expression profiles were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR. Both groups of mice infected with high-dose POWV showed severe neurological signs of disease preceding death. The presence of SGE did not affect POWV transmission or disease outcome for mice infected with the high dose of POWV. Neuroinvasion, paralysis, and death occurred for all mice infected with the low dose of POWV plus SGE; however, for mice infected with the low dose of POWV in the absence of SGE, there were no clinical signs of infection and no mice succumbed to disease. Although this group displayed low-level viremias, all mice were completely healthy, and it was the only group in which POWV was cleared from the lymph nodes. We conclude that saliva-activated transmission occurs in mice infected with a low dose of POWV. Our study is the first to demonstrate virus dose-dependent saliva-activated transmission, warranting further investigation of the specific salivary factors responsible for enhancing POWV transmission.
IMPORTANCE:
Powassan virus (POWV) is a tick-borne flavivirus that continues to emerge in the United States, as is evident by the surge in number and expanding geographic range of confirmed cases in the past decade. This neuroinvasive virus is transmitted to humans by infected tick bites. Successful tick feeding is facilitated by a collection of pharmacologically active factors in tick saliva. In a process known as saliva-activated transmission, tick bioactive salivary molecules are thought to modulate the host environment, making it more favorable for the transmission and establishment of a pathogen. This phenomenon has been demonstrated for several tick-borne pathogens; however, a systematic investigation of the role of tick saliva on dissemination and pathogenesis of a tick-borne viral disease has never been attempted before. This study will fill that gap by systematically examining whether the presence of tick saliva contributes to the transmission and dissemination of POWV in mice.
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6.) Isolation of deer tick virus (Powassan virus, lineage II) from Ixodes scapularis and detection of antibody in vertebrate hosts sampled in the Hudson Valley, New York State.
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Parasit Vectors. 2013 Jul 15;6:185. doi: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-185.
Dupuis AP 2nd1, Peters RJ, Prusinski MA, Falco RC, Ostfeld RS, Kramer LD.
Author information
1
The Arbovirus Laboratories, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, 5668 State Farm Rd, Slingerlands, NY, 12159, USA. kramer@wadsworth.org.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Deer tick virus, DTV, is a genetically and ecologically distinct lineage of Powassan virus (POWV) also known as lineage II POWV. Human incidence of POW encephalitis has increased in the last 15 years potentially due to the emergence of DTV, particularly in the Hudson Valley of New York State. We initiated an extensive sampling campaign to determine whether POWV was extant throughout the Hudson Valley in tick vectors and/or vertebrate hosts.
METHODS:
More than 13,000 ticks were collected from hosts or vegetation and tested for the presence of DTV using molecular and virus isolation techniques. Vertebrate hosts of Ixodes scapularis (black-legged tick) were trapped (mammals) or netted (birds) and blood samples analyzed for the presence of neutralizing antibodies to POWV. Maximum likelihood estimates (MLE) were calculated to determine infection rates in ticks at each study site.
RESULTS:
Evidence of DTV was identified each year from 2007 to 2012, in nymphal and adult I. scapularis collected from the Hudson Valley. 58 tick pools were positive for virus and/or RNA. Infection rates were higher in adult ticks collected from areas east of the Hudson River. MLE limits ranged from 0.2-6.0 infected adults per 100 at sites where DTV was detected. Virginia opossums, striped skunks and raccoons were the source of infected nymphal ticks collected as replete larvae. Serologic evidence of POWV infection was detected in woodchucks (4/6), an opossum (1/6), and birds (4/727). Lineage I, prototype POWV, was not detected.
CONCLUSIONS:
These data demonstrate widespread enzootic transmission of DTV throughout the Hudson Valley, in particular areas east of the river. High infection rates were detected in counties where recent POW encephalitis cases have been identified, supporting the hypothesis that lineage II POWV, DTV, is responsible for these human infections.
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7.) Powassan/Deer Tick Virus and Borrelia Burgdorferi Infection in Wisconsin Tick Populations.
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Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. 2017 Jul;17(7):463-466. doi: 10.1089/vbz.2016.2082. Epub 2017 May 10.
Knox KK1, Thomm AM1, Harrington YA1, Ketter E2, Patitucci JM3, Carrigan DR4.
Author information
1
1 Coppe Healthcare Solutions , Waukesha, Wisconsin.
2
2 Stowers Institute for Medical Research , Kansas City, Missouri.
3
3 Marshfield Clinic Research Foundation , Marshfield, Wisconsin.
4
4 Wisconsin Viral Research Group , Waukesha, Wisconsin.
Abstract
Powassan/Deer Tick Virus (POWV/DTV) is an emerging cause of arboviral neuroinvasive disease in the upper Midwest. These studies describe the prevalence and geographic distribution of Wisconsin ticks carrying POWV/DTV as well as the high frequency of Ixodes scapularis ticks coinfected with both POWV/DTV and Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease. These findings suggest that concurrent transmission of POWV/DTV and B. Burgdorferi from coinfected ticks is likely to occur in humans.
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8.) Powassan meningoencephalitis, New York, New York, USA.
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Emerg Infect Dis. 2013;19(9). doi: 10.3201/eid1909.121846.
Sung S1, Wurcel AG, Whittier S, Kulas K, Kramer LD, Flam R, Roberts JK, Tsiouris S.
Author information
1
Department of Pathology, Columbia University, 830 West 168th St, New York City , NY 10032, USA. ss3768@columbia.edu
Abstract
Disease caused by Powassan virus (POWV), a tick-borne flavivirus, ranges from asymptomatic to severe neurologic compromise and death. Two cases of POWV meningoencephalitis in New York, USA, highlight diagnostic techniques, neurologic outcomes, and the effect of POWV on communities to which it is endemic.
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9.) Powassan Virus
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Source: CDC (Center for Control and Disease Prevention)
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 and Great Lakes region. 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 healthcare provider.
Symptoms
========
Many people who become infected with Powassan (POW) virus do not develop any symptoms.
The incubation period (time from tick bite to onset of illness) ranges from about 1 week to 1 month.
POW virus can infect the central nervous system and cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord).
Symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, loss of coordination, speech difficulties, and seizures.
Approximately half of survivors have permanent neurological symptoms, such as recurrent headaches, muscle wasting and memory problems.
Approximately 10% of POW virus encephalitis cases are fatal.
Treatment
=========
There are no vaccines or medications to treat or prevent POW virus infection.
If you think you or a family member may have POW virus disease, see your health care provider for evaluation and diagnosis.
Persons with severe POW illnesses often need to be hospitalized. Treatment may include respiratory support, intravenous fluids, and medications to reduce swelling in the brain.
prevention
=========
Reducing exposure to ticks is the best defense against Powassan virus disease, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other tickborne infections. There is no vaccine for Powassan virus . There are several steps you and your family can take to prevent and control Powassan virus disease as demonstrated on the Lyme disease website.
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10.) Tickborne Powassan virus infections among Wisconsin residents.
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WMJ. 2010 Apr;109(2):91-7.
Johnson DK1, Staples JE, Sotir MJ, Warshauer DM, Davis JP.
Author information
1
Bureau of Communicable Diseases and Emergency Response, Wisconsin Division of Public Health, Madison, WI 53701-2659, USA. diep.hoangjohnson@wi.gov
Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Powassan virus (POWV) is a tickborne Flavivirus that causes a rare but potentially life-threatening illness. The first reported case of POWV infection in a Wisconsin resident occurred in 2003. Enhanced surveillance and testing detected 2 additional cases.
METHODS:
Patient specimens with a positive or equivocal immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibody to an arbovirus were sent from commercial laboratories to the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene and forwarded to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for confirmatory testing. Patients with laboratory confirmed POWV infections were interviewed to obtain demographic, clinical, and epidemiologic information.
RESULTS:
POWV infections were confirmed in 3 adult Wisconsin residents in 2003, 2006, and 2007; illness onsets occurred during May and June. Two patients were hospitalized and all survived. One patient had a dual infection with POWV and Anaplasma phaghocytophilum. Specimens from all 3 patients were initially reported as positive for IgM antibody to either St Louis encephalitis or California serogroup viruses; POWV-specific antibody was detected during confirmatory testing at the CDC. Each patient had exposures to known or likely tick habitats in different counties within 30 days before illness onset.
CONCLUSIONS:
These are the first diagnosed human POWV infections in Wisconsin. Because all 3 patients were initially identified as having other arboviral infections using commercial screening kits, routine confirmatory testing is essential for proper diagnosis of most arboviral infections. Wisconsin residents should be educated regarding risks of acquiring and ways to prevent POWV infection and other tickborne diseases when spending time outdoors.
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11.) Prevalence and genetic characterization of Powassan virus strains infecting Ixodes scapularis in Connecticut.
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Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2012 Oct;87(4):754-9. doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.2012.12-0294. Epub 2012 Aug 13.
Anderson JF1, Armstrong PM.
Author information
1
Department of Entomology and Center for Vector Biology and Zoonotic Diseases, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, CT 06504-1106, USA. John.F.Anderson@CT.Gov
Abstract
A total of 30 Powassan virus (POWV) isolates from Ixodes scapularis collected from Bridgeport and North Branford, CT in 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2012 and one earlier isolate from Ixodes cookei collected in Old Lyme, CT in 1978 were characterized by phylogenetic analysis of their envelope gene sequences. Powassan virus sequences segregated into two major groups termed the deer tick virus (DTV) and Powassan (POW) lineages. The lineage from I. cookei was POW. The remaining viruses from I. scapularis grouped with the DTV lineage. Powassan viruses from Bridgeport were nearly identical and clustered with a virus strain from a human in New York. Viruses from North Branford were homogeneous and grouped with viruses from Massachusetts, northwestern Connecticut, and Ontario. These findings suggest that POWV was independently introduced into these geographical locations in Connecticut and maintained focally in their respective environments. An improved method of isolation of POWV in vitro is described.
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12.) Increased recognition of Powassan encephalitis in the United States, 1999-2005.
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Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. 2008 Dec;8(6):733-40. doi: 10.1089/vbz.2008.0022.
Hinten SR1, Beckett GA, Gensheimer KF, Pritchard E, Courtney TM, Sears SD, Woytowicz JM, Preston DG, Smith RP Jr, Rand PW, Lacombe EH, Holman MS, Lubelczyk CB, Kelso PT, Beelen AP, Stobierski MG, Sotir MJ, Wong S, Ebel G, Kosoy O, Piesman J, Campbell GL, Marfin AA.
Author information
1
Division of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases, National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Public Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services, Fort Collins, Colorado 80522, USA.
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) disease is a rare human disease caused by a tick-borne encephalitis group flavivirus maintained in a transmission cycle between Ixodes cookei and other ixodid ticks and small and medium-sized mammals. During 1958-1998, only 27 POWV disease cases (mostly Powassan encephalitis) were reported from eastern Canada and the northeastern United States (average, 0.7 cases per year). During 1999-2005, nine cases (described herein) of serologically confirmed POWV disease were reported in the United States (average, 1.3 cases per year): four from Maine, two from New York, and one each from Michigan, Vermont, and Wisconsin. The Michigan and Wisconsin cases are the first ever reported from the north-central United States. Of these nine patients, 5 (56%) were men, the median age was 69 years (range: 25-91 years), and 6 (67%) had onset during May-July. All but one patient developed encephalitis with acute onset of profound muscle weakness, confusion, and other severe neurologic signs. In one case, no neurologic symptoms were present but the presence of pleocytosis, an elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein concentration, and POWV-specific immunoglobulin M in CSF suggested neuroinvasion. All patients recovered from their acute disease, but most had long-term neurologic sequelae. Periresidential ecologic investigations were performed in three cases, including tests of local mammals and ticks for evidence of POWV infection. Woodchucks (Marmota monax), striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis), and a raccoon (Procyon lotor) collected at two of the Maine case-patients' residences had neutralizing antibody titers to POWV. I. cookei were found on woodchucks and skunks and questing in grassy areas of one of these residences; all were negative for POWV. Although POWV disease is rare, it is probably under-recognized, and it causes significant morbidity, and thus is an additional tick-borne emerging infectious disease entity. Because no vaccine or specific therapy is available, the basis of prevention is personal protection from ticks (or "tick hygiene") and reduced exposure to peridomestic wild mammals.
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13.) Another Dies From Powassan / New York Man Dies From Tick Carrying Brain Swelling Virus
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by lymecoordinator56
source: hudsonvalleypost.com/new-york-man-dies-from-rare-tick-carrying-brain-swelling-virus/
New York Man Dies From Tick Carrying Brain Swelling Virus
By Bobby Welber July 13, 2017 10:27 AM
The daughter of a man who lived just outside the Hudson Valley is warning the public after her father died from a tick that carries a rare brain swelling virus.
In early May or late April, 74-year-old Charles Smith of Saratoga County discovered a tick bite near his elbow. Ten days later, Smith became very sick and was rushed to a hospital.
After a number of tests, he was diagnosed with the Powassan virus and died in early
June, reports WYNT.
The Powassan virus is spread by the same deer tick that carries Lyme disease. Powassan, which in some cases has been fatal, attacks the nervous system and can cause a dangerous brain swelling.
Other symptoms can include vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures and memory loss.
There is currently no treatment for the virus, which according to the CDC kills around 10% of people who become sick. Half are left with permanent neurological problems.
At the families urging, on Wednesday, the New York State Department of Health confirmed that Smith was diagnosed with the Powassan virus.
“Why has it taken us to to contact you to make people aware?” Stephanie wondered to WYNT.
To decrease your risk of being infected with the Powassan virus the CDC recommends using tick repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, avoiding bushy and wooded areas and doing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoor.
Correction: This article originally stated that the death of 17-year-old Poughkeepsie High School Joseph Elone in 2013 was from Powassan virus.
While Powassan virus was initially suspected, Elone in fact died of Lyme carditis, according to the Lyme Action Network.
**Comment**
If you've read the articles I've posted this summer about Powassan you will realize it can no longer be called "rare." Too many have died in such a short period of time.
Also, the daughter of the deceased makes a valid point: she had to contact authorities. This is a huge reason why they are stating it is "rare." How many people are going to think of contacting authorities when they are grieving a loved one? This should be a reportable disease in every state, requiring health professionals to report it. This should also hold true for every other tick borne infection. Those of us with boots on the ground know full well these infections are NOT rare - just rarely diagnosed and reported.
Despite what authorities say, there are things you can do for viruses besides hydrate people: Source: madisonarealymesupportgroup.com/2016/03/28/combating-viruses/
Source:newsmax.com/Health/Health-News/ozone-therapy-treatment-cancer/2015/03/20/id/631395/ Ozone was first used in medicine at the end of the 19th century to treat tuberculosis. During World War I, medics used it to disinfect wounds. Since the 1950s, ozone therapy has gained popularity throughout the world. More than 45,000 physicians in 50 countries now administer ozone. Ozone is typically administered with one of two different IV methods:
Major Auto-Hemotherapy (MAH), in which blood is drawn from the patient, exposed to ozone and re-injected into the patient.
Direct Intravenous Ozone Therapy (DIV), in which oxygen and ozone are directly infused into the patient’s bloodstream.
Source: medicalozone.info/ozone-therapy-infected-blood/ Here ozone has an inhibitory effect upon parasites. The parasites are subjected to an increased oxidative stress, and their reproductive cycle is disrupted. Ozonation was carried out at a concentration of 80 µg/ml in a RBC suspension. Optimal growth inhibition was obtained by applying ozone twice, i.e. immediately before and after infection.
Source: oxygenhealingtherapies.com/Why_Ozone_Therapy.html More About Viruses
"In each reproducing cell in our bodies there are two substances: RNA and DNA – the ‘helix' form discovered by Crick and Watson. They contain the genetic blueprint for the cell, and the whole body. Viruses are not cells, they are either RNA or DNA genetic material - but not both - surrounded by a coat of protein. Since they have only half of the genetic material, they cannot reproduce on their own. They multiply by attaching themselves to the inner RNA or DNA of normal cells, taking it over and forcing the cell to make more of the virus. Picture slave labor. They wait there and emerge when our defenses are down! Outside of their host cell they are basically inert so it is clear that they are ‘hiding out' in the cells, and must be uncovered within the cell to be destroyed before they manifest their destructive potential. This is where the amazing property of ozone to invade diseased cells, uncovering and destroying the disease or virus, is so effective."
Although MAH improves many diseases and conditions, it rarely eliminates them. So many doctors prefer DIV, which is safer to perform, yet more powerful in its effects. “DIV is the only way you can get rid of something,” says Robins. According to proponents, ozone therapy is broadly effective because it attacks and removes disease-causing agents, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, molds, yeast, and toxic metals.
Although ozone therapy is often denigrated by mainstream physicians in the U.S., in other countries such as Germany, it is considered safe and a standard of care. “When people ask why ozone therapy isn’t more available in the United States, I say it’s because it’s not a patentable medicine and the drug companies can’t make any money off it,” says Robins. “That’s probably the main reason why it’s been suppressed.”
For a list of ozone therapists, go to oxygentherapyexperts.com.
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14.) Powassan virus encephalitis, Minnesota, USA.
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Emerg Infect Dis. 2012 Oct;18(10):1669-71. doi: 10.3201/eid1810.120621.
Birge J1, Sonnesyn S.
Author information
1
Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. birgejustin@gmail.com
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is a rare tick-borne agent of encephalitis in North America. Historically, confirmed cases occurred mainly in the northeastern United States. Since 2008, confirmed cases in Minnesota and Wisconsin have increased. We report a fatal case of POWV encephalitis in Minnesota. POWV infection should be suspected in tick-exposed patients with viral encephalitis.
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15.) Powassan virus in mammals, Alaska and New Mexico, U.S.A., and Russia, 2004-2007.
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Emerg Infect Dis. 2013 Dec;19(12):2012-6. doi: 10.3201/eid1912.130319.
Deardorff ER, Nofchissey RA, Cook JA, Hope AG, Tsvetkova A, Talbot SL, Ebel GD.
Abstract
Powassan virus is endemic to the United States, Canada, and the Russian Far East. We report serologic evidence of circulation of this virus in Alaska, New Mexico, and Siberia. These data support further studies of viral ecology in rapidly changing Arctic environments.
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16.) Tick-borne encephalitis among U.S. travelers to Europe and Asia - 2000-2009.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2010 Mar 26;59(11):335-8.
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is the most common arbovirus transmitted by ticks in Europe. Approximately 10,000 cases of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) are reported annually in Europe and Russia. Although TBE is endemic in parts of China, information regarding its incidence is limited. TBEV is closely related to Powassan virus (POWV), another tick-borne flavivirus that is a rare cause of encephalitis in North America and Russia; TBEV and POWV can cross-react in serologic tests. Before 2000, two cases of TBE in North American travelers to Europe were reported. State health officials or clinicians send specimens from patients with unexplained encephalitis to CDC as part of routine surveillance and diagnostic testing. CDC recently reviewed all 2000-2009 laboratory records to identify cases of TBE among U.S. travelers; the five cases identified are summarized in this report. All five cases had TBEV or POWV immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies in serum and were confirmed as acute TBE cases by plaque-reduction neutralization tests against both viruses. All four patients who had traveled to Europe or Russia had biphasic illnesses (a common feature of TBE) and made nearly complete recoveries. The fifth patient, the first reported case of TBE in a U.S. traveler to China, had a monophasic illness with severe encephalitis and neurologic sequelae. Health-care providers should be aware of TBE, should counsel travelers about measures to reduce exposure to tick bites, and should consider the diagnosis of TBE in travelers returning from TBE-endemic countries with meningitis or encephalitis.
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17.) Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus in Ticks and Roe Deer, the Netherlands.
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Jahfari S, de Vries A, Rijks JM, Van Gucht S, Vennema H, Sprong H, Rockx B.
Abstract
We report the presence of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) in the Netherlands. Serologic screening of roe deer found TBEV-neutralizing antibodies with a seroprevalence of 2%, and TBEV RNA was detected in 2 ticks from the same location. Enhanced surveillance and awareness among medical professionals has led to the identification of autochthonous cases.
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18.) Stable prevalence of Powassan virus in Ixodes scapularis in a northern Wisconsin focus.
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Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2008 Dec;79(6):971-3.
Brackney DE1, Nofchissey RA, Fitzpatrick KA, Brown IK, Ebel GD.
Author information
1
University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA.
Abstract
Deer tick virus (DTV), a variant of Powassan virus (POWV), appears to be maintained in nature in an enzootic cycle between Ixodes scapularis ticks and small mammals. Although POWV infection of human beings is rare, a recent report suggests increasing incidence and the possibility that POWV may be an emerging tick-borne zoonosis. Therefore, we assessed the long-term stability of the POWV transmission cycle in northwestern Wisconsin. Adult I. scapularis and Dermacentor variabilis were collected from Hayward and Spooner, Wisconsin, screened for infection by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and virus was isolated. Seventeen of 1,335 (1.3%) of I. scapularis and 0 of 222 (0%) of D. variabilis ticks were infected. All isolated virus belonged to the DTV genotype of POWV. These findings suggest stable transmission of POWV in this focus over ten years and highlight the potential for this agent to emerge as a public health concern.
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19.) Seroprevalence of Powassan virus in New England deer, 1979-2010.
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Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2013 Jun;88(6):1159-62. doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.12-0586. Epub 2013 Apr 8.
Nofchissey RA1, Deardorff ER, Blevins TM, Anishchenko M, Bosco-Lauth A, Berl E, Lubelczyk C, Mutebi JP, Brault AC, Ebel GD, Magnarelli LA.
Author information
1
University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA. rnofchissey@salud.unm.edu
Abstract
Powassan virus and its subtype, deer tick virus, are closely related tick-borne flaviviruses that circulate in North America. The incidence of human infection by these agents appears to have increased in recent years. To define exposure patterns among white-tailed deer, potentially useful sentinels that are frequently parasitized by ticks, we screened serum samples collected during 1979-2010 in Connecticut, Maine, and Vermont for neutralizing antibody by using a novel recombinant deer tick virus-West Nile virus chimeric virus. Evidence of exposure was detected in all three states. Overall our results demonstrate that seroprevalence is variable in time and space, suggesting that risk of exposure to Powassan virus is similarly variable.
REFERENCIAS BIBLIOGRAFICAS/ BIBLIOGRAPHICAL REFERENCES
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1.) Serologic Evidence of Powassan Virus Infection in Patients with Suspected Lyme Disease1.
2.) Potential role of deer tick virus in Powassan encephalitis cases in Lyme disease-endemic areas of New York, U.S.A.
3.) Emerging Cases of Powassan Virus Encephalitis in New England: Clinical Presentation, Imaging, and Review of the Literature.
4.) Powassan Virus: An Emerging Arbovirus of Public Health Concern in North America.
5.) Tick Saliva Enhances Powassan Virus Transmission to the Host, Influencing Its Dissemination and the Course of Disease.
6.) Isolation of deer tick virus (Powassan virus, lineage II) from Ixodes scapularis and detection of antibody in vertebrate hosts sampled in the Hudson Valley, New York State.
7.) Powassan/Deer Tick Virus and Borrelia Burgdorferi Infection in Wisconsin Tick Populations.
8.) Powassan meningoencephalitis, New York, New York, USA.
9.) Powassan Virus
10.) Tickborne Powassan virus infections among Wisconsin residents.
11.) Prevalence and genetic characterization of Powassan virus strains infecting Ixodes scapularis in Connecticut.
12.) Increased recognition of Powassan encephalitis in the United States, 1999-2005.
13.) Another Dies From Powassan / New York Man Dies From Tick Carrying Brain Swelling Virus
14.) Powassan virus encephalitis, Minnesota, USA.
15.) Powassan virus in mammals, Alaska and New Mexico, U.S.A., and Russia, 2004-2007.
16.) Tick-borne encephalitis among U.S. travelers to Europe and Asia - 2000-2009.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
17.) Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus in Ticks and Roe Deer, the Netherlands.
18.) Stable prevalence of Powassan virus in Ixodes scapularis in a northern Wisconsin focus.
19.) Seroprevalence of Powassan virus in New England deer, 1979-2010.
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1.) Serologic Evidence of Powassan Virus Infection in Patients with Suspected Lyme Disease1.
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Emerg Infect Dis. 2017 Aug;23(8):1384-1388. doi: 10.3201/eid2308.161971.
Frost HM, Schotthoefer AM, Thomm AM, Dupuis AP 2nd, Kehl SC, Kramer LD, Fritsche TR, Harrington YA, Knox KK.
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) lineage II is an emerging tickborne flavivirus with an unknown seroprevalence in humans. In a Lyme disease-endemic area, we examined the seroreactivity to POWV in 2 patient cohorts and described the clinical features of the POWV-seroreactive patients. POWV disease might be less neuroinvasive than previously thought.
KEYWORDS:
Lyme disease; Powassan virus; United States; deer tick virus; encephalitis viruses; meningitis/encephalitis; serology; tick-borne encephalitis; tickborne; vector-borne infections; viruses; zoonoses
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2.) Potential role of deer tick virus in Powassan encephalitis cases in Lyme disease-endemic areas of New York, U.S.A.
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Emerg Infect Dis. 2013 Dec;19(12):1926-33. doi: 10.3201/eid1912.130903.
El Khoury MY, Camargo JF, White JL, Backenson BP, Dupuis AP 2nd, Escuyer KL, Kramer L, St George K, Chatterjee D, Prusinski M, Wormser GP, Wong SJ.
Abstract
Powassan virus, a member of the tick-borne encephalitis group of flaviviruses, encompasses 2 lineages with separate enzootic cycles. The prototype lineage of Powassan virus (POWV) is principally maintained between Ixodes cookei ticks and the groundhog (Marmota momax) or striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), whereas the deer tick virus (DTV) lineage is believed to be maintained between Ixodes scapularis ticks and the white-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus). We report 14 cases of Powassan encephalitis from New York during 2004-2012. Ten (72%) of the patients were residents of the Lower Hudson Valley, a Lyme disease-endemic area in which I. scapularis ticks account for most human tick bites. This finding suggests that many of these cases were caused by DTV rather than POWV. In 2 patients, DTV infection was confirmed by genetic sequencing. As molecular testing becomes increasingly available, more cases of Powassan encephalitis may be determined to be attributable to the DTV lineage.
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3.) Emerging Cases of Powassan Virus Encephalitis in New England: Clinical Presentation, Imaging, and Review of the Literature.
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Piantadosi A1, Rubin DB2, McQuillen DP3, Hsu L4, Lederer PA1, Ashbaugh CD5, Duffalo C6, Duncan R3, Thon J2, Bhattacharyya S2, Basgoz N1, Feske SK2, Lyons JL2.
Author information
1
Division of Infectious Disease, Massachusetts General Hospital.
2
Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston.
3
Department of Infectious Diseases, Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Burlington.
4
Department of Radiology.
5
Division of Infectious Disease, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.
6
Christiana Care Health System, Division of Infectious Diseases, Newark, Delaware.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Powassan virus (POWV) is a rarely diagnosed cause of encephalitis in the United States. In the Northeast, it is transmitted by Ixodes scapularis, the same vector that transmits Lyme disease. The prevalence of POWV among animal hosts and vectors has been increasing. We present 8 cases of POWV encephalitis from Massachusetts and New Hampshire in 2013-2015.
METHODS:
We abstracted clinical and epidemiological information for patients with POWV encephalitis diagnosed at 2 hospitals in Massachusetts from 2013 to 2015. We compared their brain imaging with those in published findings from Powassan and other viral encephalitides.
RESULTS:
The patients ranged in age from 21 to 82 years, were, for the most part, previously healthy, and presented with syndromes of fever, headache, and altered consciousness. Infections occurred from May to September and were often associated with known tick exposures. In all patients, cerebrospinal fluid analyses showed pleocytosis with elevated protein. In 7 of 8 patients, brain magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated deep foci of increased T2/fluid-attenuation inversion recovery signal intensity.
CONCLUSIONS:
We describe 8 cases of POWV encephalitis in Massachusetts and New Hampshire in 2013-2015. Prior to this, there had been only 2 cases of POWV encephalitis identified in Massachusetts. These cases may represent emergence of this virus in a region where its vector, I. scapularis, is known to be prevalent or may represent the emerging diagnosis of an underappreciated pathogen. We recommend testing for POWV in patients who present with encephalitis in the spring to fall in New England.
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4.) Powassan Virus: An Emerging Arbovirus of Public Health Concern in North America.
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Hermance ME1, Thangamani S1,2,3.
Author information
1
1 Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch , Galveston, Texas.
2
2 Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch , Galveston, Texas.
3
3 Center for Tropical Diseases, University of Texas Medical Branch , Galveston, Texas.
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV, Flaviviridae) is the only North American member of the tick-borne encephalitis serogroup of flaviviruses. It is transmitted to small- and medium-sized mammals by Ixodes scapularis, Ixodes cookei, and several other Ixodes tick species. Humans become infected with POWV during spillover transmission from the natural transmission cycles. In humans, POWV is the causative agent of a severe neuroinvasive illness with 50% of survivors displaying long-term neurological sequelae. POWV was recognized as a human pathogen in 1958 when a young boy died of severe encephalitis in Powassan, Ontario, and POWV was isolated from the brain autopsy of this case. Two distinct genetic lineages of POWV are now recognized: POWV (lineage I) and deer tick virus (lineage II). Since the index case in 1958, over 100 human cases of POWV have been reported, with an apparent rise in disease incidence in the past 16 years. This recent increase in cases may represent a true emergence of POWV in regions where the tick vector species are prevalent, or it could represent an increase in POWV surveillance and diagnosis. In the past 5 years, both basic and applied research for POWV disease has intensified, including phylogenetic studies, field surveillance, case studies, and animal model development. This review provides an overview of POWV, including the epidemiology, transmission, clinical disease, and diagnosis of POWV infection. Recent research developments and future priorities with regard to the disease are emphasized.
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5.) Tick Saliva Enhances Powassan Virus Transmission to the Host, Influencing Its Dissemination and the Course of Disease.
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J Virol. 2015 Aug;89(15):7852-60. doi: 10.1128/JVI.01056-15. Epub 2015 May 20.
Hermance ME1, Thangamani S2.
Author information
1
Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA.
2
Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA sathanga@utmb.edu.
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is an encephalitic tick-borne flavivirus which can result in serious neuroinvasive disease with up to a 10% case fatality rate. The study objective was to determine whether the salivary gland extract (SGE) from Ixodes scapularis ticks facilitates the transmission and dissemination of POWV in a process known as saliva-activated transmission. Groups of BALB/c mice were footpad inoculated with either a high dose of POWV with and without SGE or a low dose of POWV with and without SGE. Mice from each group were sacrificed daily. Organ viral loads and gene expression profiles were evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR. Both groups of mice infected with high-dose POWV showed severe neurological signs of disease preceding death. The presence of SGE did not affect POWV transmission or disease outcome for mice infected with the high dose of POWV. Neuroinvasion, paralysis, and death occurred for all mice infected with the low dose of POWV plus SGE; however, for mice infected with the low dose of POWV in the absence of SGE, there were no clinical signs of infection and no mice succumbed to disease. Although this group displayed low-level viremias, all mice were completely healthy, and it was the only group in which POWV was cleared from the lymph nodes. We conclude that saliva-activated transmission occurs in mice infected with a low dose of POWV. Our study is the first to demonstrate virus dose-dependent saliva-activated transmission, warranting further investigation of the specific salivary factors responsible for enhancing POWV transmission.
IMPORTANCE:
Powassan virus (POWV) is a tick-borne flavivirus that continues to emerge in the United States, as is evident by the surge in number and expanding geographic range of confirmed cases in the past decade. This neuroinvasive virus is transmitted to humans by infected tick bites. Successful tick feeding is facilitated by a collection of pharmacologically active factors in tick saliva. In a process known as saliva-activated transmission, tick bioactive salivary molecules are thought to modulate the host environment, making it more favorable for the transmission and establishment of a pathogen. This phenomenon has been demonstrated for several tick-borne pathogens; however, a systematic investigation of the role of tick saliva on dissemination and pathogenesis of a tick-borne viral disease has never been attempted before. This study will fill that gap by systematically examining whether the presence of tick saliva contributes to the transmission and dissemination of POWV in mice.
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6.) Isolation of deer tick virus (Powassan virus, lineage II) from Ixodes scapularis and detection of antibody in vertebrate hosts sampled in the Hudson Valley, New York State.
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Parasit Vectors. 2013 Jul 15;6:185. doi: 10.1186/1756-3305-6-185.
Dupuis AP 2nd1, Peters RJ, Prusinski MA, Falco RC, Ostfeld RS, Kramer LD.
Author information
1
The Arbovirus Laboratories, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, 5668 State Farm Rd, Slingerlands, NY, 12159, USA. kramer@wadsworth.org.
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Deer tick virus, DTV, is a genetically and ecologically distinct lineage of Powassan virus (POWV) also known as lineage II POWV. Human incidence of POW encephalitis has increased in the last 15 years potentially due to the emergence of DTV, particularly in the Hudson Valley of New York State. We initiated an extensive sampling campaign to determine whether POWV was extant throughout the Hudson Valley in tick vectors and/or vertebrate hosts.
METHODS:
More than 13,000 ticks were collected from hosts or vegetation and tested for the presence of DTV using molecular and virus isolation techniques. Vertebrate hosts of Ixodes scapularis (black-legged tick) were trapped (mammals) or netted (birds) and blood samples analyzed for the presence of neutralizing antibodies to POWV. Maximum likelihood estimates (MLE) were calculated to determine infection rates in ticks at each study site.
RESULTS:
Evidence of DTV was identified each year from 2007 to 2012, in nymphal and adult I. scapularis collected from the Hudson Valley. 58 tick pools were positive for virus and/or RNA. Infection rates were higher in adult ticks collected from areas east of the Hudson River. MLE limits ranged from 0.2-6.0 infected adults per 100 at sites where DTV was detected. Virginia opossums, striped skunks and raccoons were the source of infected nymphal ticks collected as replete larvae. Serologic evidence of POWV infection was detected in woodchucks (4/6), an opossum (1/6), and birds (4/727). Lineage I, prototype POWV, was not detected.
CONCLUSIONS:
These data demonstrate widespread enzootic transmission of DTV throughout the Hudson Valley, in particular areas east of the river. High infection rates were detected in counties where recent POW encephalitis cases have been identified, supporting the hypothesis that lineage II POWV, DTV, is responsible for these human infections.
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7.) Powassan/Deer Tick Virus and Borrelia Burgdorferi Infection in Wisconsin Tick Populations.
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Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. 2017 Jul;17(7):463-466. doi: 10.1089/vbz.2016.2082. Epub 2017 May 10.
Knox KK1, Thomm AM1, Harrington YA1, Ketter E2, Patitucci JM3, Carrigan DR4.
Author information
1
1 Coppe Healthcare Solutions , Waukesha, Wisconsin.
2
2 Stowers Institute for Medical Research , Kansas City, Missouri.
3
3 Marshfield Clinic Research Foundation , Marshfield, Wisconsin.
4
4 Wisconsin Viral Research Group , Waukesha, Wisconsin.
Abstract
Powassan/Deer Tick Virus (POWV/DTV) is an emerging cause of arboviral neuroinvasive disease in the upper Midwest. These studies describe the prevalence and geographic distribution of Wisconsin ticks carrying POWV/DTV as well as the high frequency of Ixodes scapularis ticks coinfected with both POWV/DTV and Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease. These findings suggest that concurrent transmission of POWV/DTV and B. Burgdorferi from coinfected ticks is likely to occur in humans.
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8.) Powassan meningoencephalitis, New York, New York, USA.
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Emerg Infect Dis. 2013;19(9). doi: 10.3201/eid1909.121846.
Sung S1, Wurcel AG, Whittier S, Kulas K, Kramer LD, Flam R, Roberts JK, Tsiouris S.
Author information
1
Department of Pathology, Columbia University, 830 West 168th St, New York City , NY 10032, USA. ss3768@columbia.edu
Abstract
Disease caused by Powassan virus (POWV), a tick-borne flavivirus, ranges from asymptomatic to severe neurologic compromise and death. Two cases of POWV meningoencephalitis in New York, USA, highlight diagnostic techniques, neurologic outcomes, and the effect of POWV on communities to which it is endemic.
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9.) Powassan Virus
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Source: CDC (Center for Control and Disease Prevention)
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 and Great Lakes region. 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 healthcare provider.
Symptoms
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Many people who become infected with Powassan (POW) virus do not develop any symptoms.
The incubation period (time from tick bite to onset of illness) ranges from about 1 week to 1 month.
POW virus can infect the central nervous system and cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord).
Symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, loss of coordination, speech difficulties, and seizures.
Approximately half of survivors have permanent neurological symptoms, such as recurrent headaches, muscle wasting and memory problems.
Approximately 10% of POW virus encephalitis cases are fatal.
Treatment
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There are no vaccines or medications to treat or prevent POW virus infection.
If you think you or a family member may have POW virus disease, see your health care provider for evaluation and diagnosis.
Persons with severe POW illnesses often need to be hospitalized. Treatment may include respiratory support, intravenous fluids, and medications to reduce swelling in the brain.
prevention
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Reducing exposure to ticks is the best defense against Powassan virus disease, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other tickborne infections. There is no vaccine for Powassan virus . There are several steps you and your family can take to prevent and control Powassan virus disease as demonstrated on the Lyme disease website.
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10.) Tickborne Powassan virus infections among Wisconsin residents.
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WMJ. 2010 Apr;109(2):91-7.
Johnson DK1, Staples JE, Sotir MJ, Warshauer DM, Davis JP.
Author information
1
Bureau of Communicable Diseases and Emergency Response, Wisconsin Division of Public Health, Madison, WI 53701-2659, USA. diep.hoangjohnson@wi.gov
Abstract
INTRODUCTION:
Powassan virus (POWV) is a tickborne Flavivirus that causes a rare but potentially life-threatening illness. The first reported case of POWV infection in a Wisconsin resident occurred in 2003. Enhanced surveillance and testing detected 2 additional cases.
METHODS:
Patient specimens with a positive or equivocal immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibody to an arbovirus were sent from commercial laboratories to the Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene and forwarded to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for confirmatory testing. Patients with laboratory confirmed POWV infections were interviewed to obtain demographic, clinical, and epidemiologic information.
RESULTS:
POWV infections were confirmed in 3 adult Wisconsin residents in 2003, 2006, and 2007; illness onsets occurred during May and June. Two patients were hospitalized and all survived. One patient had a dual infection with POWV and Anaplasma phaghocytophilum. Specimens from all 3 patients were initially reported as positive for IgM antibody to either St Louis encephalitis or California serogroup viruses; POWV-specific antibody was detected during confirmatory testing at the CDC. Each patient had exposures to known or likely tick habitats in different counties within 30 days before illness onset.
CONCLUSIONS:
These are the first diagnosed human POWV infections in Wisconsin. Because all 3 patients were initially identified as having other arboviral infections using commercial screening kits, routine confirmatory testing is essential for proper diagnosis of most arboviral infections. Wisconsin residents should be educated regarding risks of acquiring and ways to prevent POWV infection and other tickborne diseases when spending time outdoors.
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11.) Prevalence and genetic characterization of Powassan virus strains infecting Ixodes scapularis in Connecticut.
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Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2012 Oct;87(4):754-9. doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.2012.12-0294. Epub 2012 Aug 13.
Anderson JF1, Armstrong PM.
Author information
1
Department of Entomology and Center for Vector Biology and Zoonotic Diseases, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, CT 06504-1106, USA. John.F.Anderson@CT.Gov
Abstract
A total of 30 Powassan virus (POWV) isolates from Ixodes scapularis collected from Bridgeport and North Branford, CT in 2008, 2010, 2011, and 2012 and one earlier isolate from Ixodes cookei collected in Old Lyme, CT in 1978 were characterized by phylogenetic analysis of their envelope gene sequences. Powassan virus sequences segregated into two major groups termed the deer tick virus (DTV) and Powassan (POW) lineages. The lineage from I. cookei was POW. The remaining viruses from I. scapularis grouped with the DTV lineage. Powassan viruses from Bridgeport were nearly identical and clustered with a virus strain from a human in New York. Viruses from North Branford were homogeneous and grouped with viruses from Massachusetts, northwestern Connecticut, and Ontario. These findings suggest that POWV was independently introduced into these geographical locations in Connecticut and maintained focally in their respective environments. An improved method of isolation of POWV in vitro is described.
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12.) Increased recognition of Powassan encephalitis in the United States, 1999-2005.
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Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis. 2008 Dec;8(6):733-40. doi: 10.1089/vbz.2008.0022.
Hinten SR1, Beckett GA, Gensheimer KF, Pritchard E, Courtney TM, Sears SD, Woytowicz JM, Preston DG, Smith RP Jr, Rand PW, Lacombe EH, Holman MS, Lubelczyk CB, Kelso PT, Beelen AP, Stobierski MG, Sotir MJ, Wong S, Ebel G, Kosoy O, Piesman J, Campbell GL, Marfin AA.
Author information
1
Division of Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases, National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S. Public Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services, Fort Collins, Colorado 80522, USA.
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) disease is a rare human disease caused by a tick-borne encephalitis group flavivirus maintained in a transmission cycle between Ixodes cookei and other ixodid ticks and small and medium-sized mammals. During 1958-1998, only 27 POWV disease cases (mostly Powassan encephalitis) were reported from eastern Canada and the northeastern United States (average, 0.7 cases per year). During 1999-2005, nine cases (described herein) of serologically confirmed POWV disease were reported in the United States (average, 1.3 cases per year): four from Maine, two from New York, and one each from Michigan, Vermont, and Wisconsin. The Michigan and Wisconsin cases are the first ever reported from the north-central United States. Of these nine patients, 5 (56%) were men, the median age was 69 years (range: 25-91 years), and 6 (67%) had onset during May-July. All but one patient developed encephalitis with acute onset of profound muscle weakness, confusion, and other severe neurologic signs. In one case, no neurologic symptoms were present but the presence of pleocytosis, an elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein concentration, and POWV-specific immunoglobulin M in CSF suggested neuroinvasion. All patients recovered from their acute disease, but most had long-term neurologic sequelae. Periresidential ecologic investigations were performed in three cases, including tests of local mammals and ticks for evidence of POWV infection. Woodchucks (Marmota monax), striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis), and a raccoon (Procyon lotor) collected at two of the Maine case-patients' residences had neutralizing antibody titers to POWV. I. cookei were found on woodchucks and skunks and questing in grassy areas of one of these residences; all were negative for POWV. Although POWV disease is rare, it is probably under-recognized, and it causes significant morbidity, and thus is an additional tick-borne emerging infectious disease entity. Because no vaccine or specific therapy is available, the basis of prevention is personal protection from ticks (or "tick hygiene") and reduced exposure to peridomestic wild mammals.
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13.) Another Dies From Powassan / New York Man Dies From Tick Carrying Brain Swelling Virus
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by lymecoordinator56
source: hudsonvalleypost.com/new-york-man-dies-from-rare-tick-carrying-brain-swelling-virus/
New York Man Dies From Tick Carrying Brain Swelling Virus
By Bobby Welber July 13, 2017 10:27 AM
The daughter of a man who lived just outside the Hudson Valley is warning the public after her father died from a tick that carries a rare brain swelling virus.
In early May or late April, 74-year-old Charles Smith of Saratoga County discovered a tick bite near his elbow. Ten days later, Smith became very sick and was rushed to a hospital.
After a number of tests, he was diagnosed with the Powassan virus and died in early
June, reports WYNT.
The Powassan virus is spread by the same deer tick that carries Lyme disease. Powassan, which in some cases has been fatal, attacks the nervous system and can cause a dangerous brain swelling.
Other symptoms can include vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures and memory loss.
There is currently no treatment for the virus, which according to the CDC kills around 10% of people who become sick. Half are left with permanent neurological problems.
At the families urging, on Wednesday, the New York State Department of Health confirmed that Smith was diagnosed with the Powassan virus.
“Why has it taken us to to contact you to make people aware?” Stephanie wondered to WYNT.
To decrease your risk of being infected with the Powassan virus the CDC recommends using tick repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants, avoiding bushy and wooded areas and doing thorough tick checks after spending time outdoor.
Correction: This article originally stated that the death of 17-year-old Poughkeepsie High School Joseph Elone in 2013 was from Powassan virus.
While Powassan virus was initially suspected, Elone in fact died of Lyme carditis, according to the Lyme Action Network.
**Comment**
If you've read the articles I've posted this summer about Powassan you will realize it can no longer be called "rare." Too many have died in such a short period of time.
Also, the daughter of the deceased makes a valid point: she had to contact authorities. This is a huge reason why they are stating it is "rare." How many people are going to think of contacting authorities when they are grieving a loved one? This should be a reportable disease in every state, requiring health professionals to report it. This should also hold true for every other tick borne infection. Those of us with boots on the ground know full well these infections are NOT rare - just rarely diagnosed and reported.
Despite what authorities say, there are things you can do for viruses besides hydrate people: Source: madisonarealymesupportgroup.com/2016/03/28/combating-viruses/
Source:newsmax.com/Health/Health-News/ozone-therapy-treatment-cancer/2015/03/20/id/631395/ Ozone was first used in medicine at the end of the 19th century to treat tuberculosis. During World War I, medics used it to disinfect wounds. Since the 1950s, ozone therapy has gained popularity throughout the world. More than 45,000 physicians in 50 countries now administer ozone. Ozone is typically administered with one of two different IV methods:
Major Auto-Hemotherapy (MAH), in which blood is drawn from the patient, exposed to ozone and re-injected into the patient.
Direct Intravenous Ozone Therapy (DIV), in which oxygen and ozone are directly infused into the patient’s bloodstream.
Source: medicalozone.info/ozone-therapy-infected-blood/ Here ozone has an inhibitory effect upon parasites. The parasites are subjected to an increased oxidative stress, and their reproductive cycle is disrupted. Ozonation was carried out at a concentration of 80 µg/ml in a RBC suspension. Optimal growth inhibition was obtained by applying ozone twice, i.e. immediately before and after infection.
Source: oxygenhealingtherapies.com/Why_Ozone_Therapy.html More About Viruses
"In each reproducing cell in our bodies there are two substances: RNA and DNA – the ‘helix' form discovered by Crick and Watson. They contain the genetic blueprint for the cell, and the whole body. Viruses are not cells, they are either RNA or DNA genetic material - but not both - surrounded by a coat of protein. Since they have only half of the genetic material, they cannot reproduce on their own. They multiply by attaching themselves to the inner RNA or DNA of normal cells, taking it over and forcing the cell to make more of the virus. Picture slave labor. They wait there and emerge when our defenses are down! Outside of their host cell they are basically inert so it is clear that they are ‘hiding out' in the cells, and must be uncovered within the cell to be destroyed before they manifest their destructive potential. This is where the amazing property of ozone to invade diseased cells, uncovering and destroying the disease or virus, is so effective."
Although MAH improves many diseases and conditions, it rarely eliminates them. So many doctors prefer DIV, which is safer to perform, yet more powerful in its effects. “DIV is the only way you can get rid of something,” says Robins. According to proponents, ozone therapy is broadly effective because it attacks and removes disease-causing agents, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, molds, yeast, and toxic metals.
Although ozone therapy is often denigrated by mainstream physicians in the U.S., in other countries such as Germany, it is considered safe and a standard of care. “When people ask why ozone therapy isn’t more available in the United States, I say it’s because it’s not a patentable medicine and the drug companies can’t make any money off it,” says Robins. “That’s probably the main reason why it’s been suppressed.”
For a list of ozone therapists, go to oxygentherapyexperts.com.
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14.) Powassan virus encephalitis, Minnesota, USA.
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Emerg Infect Dis. 2012 Oct;18(10):1669-71. doi: 10.3201/eid1810.120621.
Birge J1, Sonnesyn S.
Author information
1
Abbott Northwestern Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. birgejustin@gmail.com
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is a rare tick-borne agent of encephalitis in North America. Historically, confirmed cases occurred mainly in the northeastern United States. Since 2008, confirmed cases in Minnesota and Wisconsin have increased. We report a fatal case of POWV encephalitis in Minnesota. POWV infection should be suspected in tick-exposed patients with viral encephalitis.
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15.) Powassan virus in mammals, Alaska and New Mexico, U.S.A., and Russia, 2004-2007.
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Emerg Infect Dis. 2013 Dec;19(12):2012-6. doi: 10.3201/eid1912.130319.
Deardorff ER, Nofchissey RA, Cook JA, Hope AG, Tsvetkova A, Talbot SL, Ebel GD.
Abstract
Powassan virus is endemic to the United States, Canada, and the Russian Far East. We report serologic evidence of circulation of this virus in Alaska, New Mexico, and Siberia. These data support further studies of viral ecology in rapidly changing Arctic environments.
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16.) Tick-borne encephalitis among U.S. travelers to Europe and Asia - 2000-2009.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2010 Mar 26;59(11):335-8.
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is the most common arbovirus transmitted by ticks in Europe. Approximately 10,000 cases of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) are reported annually in Europe and Russia. Although TBE is endemic in parts of China, information regarding its incidence is limited. TBEV is closely related to Powassan virus (POWV), another tick-borne flavivirus that is a rare cause of encephalitis in North America and Russia; TBEV and POWV can cross-react in serologic tests. Before 2000, two cases of TBE in North American travelers to Europe were reported. State health officials or clinicians send specimens from patients with unexplained encephalitis to CDC as part of routine surveillance and diagnostic testing. CDC recently reviewed all 2000-2009 laboratory records to identify cases of TBE among U.S. travelers; the five cases identified are summarized in this report. All five cases had TBEV or POWV immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies in serum and were confirmed as acute TBE cases by plaque-reduction neutralization tests against both viruses. All four patients who had traveled to Europe or Russia had biphasic illnesses (a common feature of TBE) and made nearly complete recoveries. The fifth patient, the first reported case of TBE in a U.S. traveler to China, had a monophasic illness with severe encephalitis and neurologic sequelae. Health-care providers should be aware of TBE, should counsel travelers about measures to reduce exposure to tick bites, and should consider the diagnosis of TBE in travelers returning from TBE-endemic countries with meningitis or encephalitis.
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17.) Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus in Ticks and Roe Deer, the Netherlands.
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Jahfari S, de Vries A, Rijks JM, Van Gucht S, Vennema H, Sprong H, Rockx B.
Abstract
We report the presence of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) in the Netherlands. Serologic screening of roe deer found TBEV-neutralizing antibodies with a seroprevalence of 2%, and TBEV RNA was detected in 2 ticks from the same location. Enhanced surveillance and awareness among medical professionals has led to the identification of autochthonous cases.
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18.) Stable prevalence of Powassan virus in Ixodes scapularis in a northern Wisconsin focus.
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Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2008 Dec;79(6):971-3.
Brackney DE1, Nofchissey RA, Fitzpatrick KA, Brown IK, Ebel GD.
Author information
1
University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, USA.
Abstract
Deer tick virus (DTV), a variant of Powassan virus (POWV), appears to be maintained in nature in an enzootic cycle between Ixodes scapularis ticks and small mammals. Although POWV infection of human beings is rare, a recent report suggests increasing incidence and the possibility that POWV may be an emerging tick-borne zoonosis. Therefore, we assessed the long-term stability of the POWV transmission cycle in northwestern Wisconsin. Adult I. scapularis and Dermacentor variabilis were collected from Hayward and Spooner, Wisconsin, screened for infection by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and virus was isolated. Seventeen of 1,335 (1.3%) of I. scapularis and 0 of 222 (0%) of D. variabilis ticks were infected. All isolated virus belonged to the DTV genotype of POWV. These findings suggest stable transmission of POWV in this focus over ten years and highlight the potential for this agent to emerge as a public health concern.
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19.) Seroprevalence of Powassan virus in New England deer, 1979-2010.
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Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2013 Jun;88(6):1159-62. doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.12-0586. Epub 2013 Apr 8.
Nofchissey RA1, Deardorff ER, Blevins TM, Anishchenko M, Bosco-Lauth A, Berl E, Lubelczyk C, Mutebi JP, Brault AC, Ebel GD, Magnarelli LA.
Author information
1
University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, USA. rnofchissey@salud.unm.edu
Abstract
Powassan virus and its subtype, deer tick virus, are closely related tick-borne flaviviruses that circulate in North America. The incidence of human infection by these agents appears to have increased in recent years. To define exposure patterns among white-tailed deer, potentially useful sentinels that are frequently parasitized by ticks, we screened serum samples collected during 1979-2010 in Connecticut, Maine, and Vermont for neutralizing antibody by using a novel recombinant deer tick virus-West Nile virus chimeric virus. Evidence of exposure was detected in all three states. Overall our results demonstrate that seroprevalence is variable in time and space, suggesting that risk of exposure to Powassan virus is similarly variable.
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