While still rare, CDC reports rise in deadly tickborne illness

Summary: Tick bites are getting scarier. The CDC says a rare but deadly sickness called the Powassan virus is on the rise. Last year, there were 76 cases in the U.S., which is the highest number ever. Unlike Lyme disease, which takes hours to spread, a tick can give you the Powassan virus in just 15 minutes!

The virus can cause severe brain swelling, and there is no vaccine or cure. Doctors say the best way to stay safe is to check yourself and your pets for ticks as soon as you come inside. Ticks like to crawl around to find a private spot before they bite, so brushing them off quickly can save your life.

For more details, see rssapp-healio-com-infectious-disease at healio.com/news/infectious-disease/20260702/while-still-rare-cdc-reports-rise-in-deadly-tickborne-illness (opens in new tab)