An Allegheny County child is Pennsylvania’s first reported case of Powassan virus this year.

Powassan virus disease is spread to people via a bite from an infected blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis). That’s the same tick that can transmit Lyme disease.

The child experienced fever and other symptoms, leading to hospitalization, and is now recovering at home.

County and state health officials are collaborating on an enhanced tick surveillance plan for the area where the case was identified. The Powassan virus was found in a small percentage of adult ticks from northern Allegheny County in 2021 and 2023.

According to the CDC, many people infected with Powassan virus disease do not experience symptoms. Those who do may experience fever, headache, vomiting, and weakness.

Some individuals experience severe illness, which can be fatal. Others who experience severe illness may develop long-term health problems. There is no vaccine to prevent infection and no medicine to treat the disease.

SOURCE: Allegheny County Health Department