Rare Tick-Borne Infection Kills New London County Woman

NEW LONDON, CT — A New London County woman in her 90's died after being infected with the tick-borne Powassan virus. The infection was the second confirmed case in Connecticut this year and the first fatality.

The victim became ill in early May and was admitted to the hospital with a fever, altered mental status and other symptoms, according to the state Department of Public Health. Her condition worsened, and she became unresponsive over the next two weeks. She died on May 17.

The victim had a known tick bite which was removed two weeks prior to the onset of symptoms.

“This incident reminds us that residents need to take actions to prevent tick bites now through the late fall,”DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani said in a statement. “DPH stresses the use of insect repellent this summer and avoiding high-risk areas, such as tall grass, where ticks may be found."

It can take a week to one month for symptoms of a Powassan virus infection to appear after being bitten by a tick. The virus can be transmitted in as little as 15 minutes after the tick attaches.

There have been 12 confirmed Connecticut infections between 2017 and 2021, of which two were fatal. Most people infected experience no symptoms or a mild flu-like illness.

Some people experience severe illness that affects the central nervous system. About one in 10 severe cases are fatal, and about half of survivors experience long-term health problems.

There is no vaccine or specific treatment for a Powassan virus infection.

People should check themselves and their children for ticks after coming indoors. Showering within two hours may help reduce the risk of tick-borne disease.

Clothes should be examined for ticks as well and tumble dried on high for 10 minutes to kill any remaining ticks.