Deer Ticks and the Powassan Virus

Ticks in the U.S. have been found to carry a rare, potentially life-threatening virus called the Powassan Virus which is more severe than Lyme Disease.

Both infections are transmitted by deer tick (Ixodes Scapularis) bites, but Lyme is a bacterial infection. The tiny tick must remain attached and feeding for about 24 hours to transmit the disease.

With the Powassan virus the transmission does not require the tick to remain attached for very long; infection is transmitted in under an hour.

Symptoms of a serious Powassan infection include severe headache, fever, vomiting, and a change in mental status (functioning) like confusion or seizures. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for this virus.

Trying to avoid deer ticks is almost impossible if you and your family spend time outside enjoying summer activities. Deer ticks are tiny—about the size of a poppy seed when not engorged with blood and found throughout your yard, especially if you live near a wooded area. Take the usual precautions when outside and always remember that thorough tick checks are your best bet for preventing many infections from ticks but because of their size they can be so easily missed.

To insure that your yard is safe contact you local pest control company.

If you live in Virginia and would like to know more about our yard guard program designed to reduce mosquitoes and ticks in your yard click here.      

For a free evaluation and estimate click here.