New York Resident Dies From Rare Tick-Borne Illness

ALBANY – A New York State resident died earlier this week from a rare disease spread by ticks.

It’s the first case of the Powassan Virus in the state this year. It happened in Ulster County.

The county executive said while exceedingly rare, the Powassan Virus and other tick-borne diseases are a serious threat. He encouraged people to be vigilant during outdoor activities.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says states reported 21 cases of the virus last year, from late spring through mid-fall. That’s when ticks are most active.

The CDC says many people with the virus do not have symptoms.

It can cause fever, headache, vomiting, loss of coordination, and memory and speech problems, as well as encephalitis and meningitis.