Illinois health officials have reported the state’s first confirmed case of Powassan virus, a rare but potentially serious illness transmitted by ticks. The Department of Public Health is working to determine where the individual may have been exposed. There is currently no vaccine or targeted treatment available for Powassan, increasing concern among experts. Symptoms can range from mild fever and headache to severe neurological complications. Authorities are urging residents to use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants in wooded areas, and perform regular tick checks to minimize the risk of infection as tick season continues in the region.
“With warm weather still prevalent, tick-borne diseases remain a potential threat here in Illinois,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “It’s important for everyone to guard against tick bites and the serious illnesses they can cause. We urge everyone to ‘Fight the Bite’ by reducing opportunities for exposures and repelling tick bites by wearing preventive clothing. If you have been in a wooded or grassy area where ticks are common and you begin to show symptoms like fever, fatigue, or headache, see a health care provider immediately.”
Health officials are warning of the dangers posed by Powassan virus, a rare but serious illness transmitted by the black-legged deer tick. Early symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, and growing weakness. In more severe cases, Powassan can lead to encephalitis, meningitis, confusion, loss of coordination, trouble speaking, and seizures. Fatal outcomes are possible. The virus is not transmissible through casual contact between people—only through tick bites. Experts urge individuals to take precautions outdoors, such as using insect repellents, wearing long sleeves, and checking for ticks after spending time in wooded or grassy areas.
