By Paul Post
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. - Ticks testing positive for the
potentially deadly Powassan virus have been found at five locations in
Saratoga County, including two sites within Saratoga Spa State Park.
The family of late Gansevoort resident, Charles Smith, says he
died from the disease, and the state Health Department has confirmed two
other cases involving Saratoga County residents this summer.
In addition to Spa State Park, ticks carrying Powassan were found
recently at Saratoga National Historical Park, the 100 Acre Woods Trail
in Malta, and a private residence whose location the Health Department
refused to identify.
“Powassan is not a new disease,” said Bryon Backenson, Health
Department epidemiologist. “There have been 26 cases in New York state
since 2000. It doesn’t mean we’re going to have more cases the following
year. This may be just a blip. Hopefully it is.”
But the three Saratoga County infections are the only ones confirmed in New York this year.
Powassan is a rare viral disease whose effects range from mild
flu-like symptoms to life-threatening encephalitis, which is
inflammation of the brain.
Much like the common cold, there is no cure, but doctors treat
symptoms while the victim’s immune system fights the disease off,
Backenson said.
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Source: http://www.troyrecord.com (via The Empire Report)
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