The mainstream media has been obsessed with the Zika virus so far this summer, and for good reason. Zika is a dangerous virus that can kill and, at this point, there is no vaccination or cure. But a new virus is making the rounds in the United States, primarily in New England and the Great Lakes region. It's called the Powassan virus, and it can and will kill you. Here's what you need to know:
The Powassan virus moves fast. Once you've been bitten by an infected tick, it's only a matter of hours before your first symptoms appear. The virus causes inflammation of the brain and the membranes around the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms include vomiting, confusion, difficulties speaking, fever, headache, and even seizures.
About 10% of cases lead to death and, while it's rare, usually only 50 people get it a year, it's expected that a massive outbreak could be on the way. Anyone who works in the great outdoors or enjoys camping, or intends to send their kids to summer camp need to know about the threat.