ST. PAUL, Minn. -- A northern Minnesota woman is the state's first death from tick-borne Powassan virus. The woman who was in her 60s died from a brain infection linked to the disease.
Health officials have identified another possible case of Powassan virus this year. An Anoka County man was hospitalized with a brain infection and is recovering at home.
People can get the virus by being bitten by an infected deer tick. Authorities say both of them had spent time outdoors and noticed tick bites.
State health officials say it's a tragic reminder of the importance of preventing tick bites.
"Powassan disease is caused by a virus and is not treatable with antibiotics, so preventing tick bites is crucial," said Dr. Ruth Lynfield, state epidemiologist with the Minnesota Department of Health.
Officials recommend that people use insect repellants that contain at least 30 percent DEET or use permethrin. People heading outdoors should also wear long pants and light colored clothing. Once they return, people should check their body very carefully for ticks. A part of preventing tick-borne illnesses is to remove the insects before they bite.
Deer ticks can also carry Lyme disease, anaplasmosis and babesiosis.
(Copyright 2011 by KARE. All Rights Reserved.)
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