#PowassanVirus

As the annual tick season approaches in North America, a rare but dangerous virus is attracting mounting attention: Powassan virus. While this tick-borne illness remains uncommon, recent research and rising case reports point to growing concerns that reverberate beyond Western borders—and carry valuable warnings for Thailand as well.

Powassan virus, primarily transmitted by blacklegged ticks, has been recognized as one of the most serious tick-borne diseases in the United States, despite its rarity. Last year, Minnesota reported a record 14 cases, the highest count since 2008 when official recordkeeping began. According to Minnesota Department of Health data, while most years saw fewer than five cases, a slow but concerning uptick has prompted both local and national action. “The risks are relatively low, however, all the tick prevention that you would do to keep yourself from getting one of those more common diseases will also help keep you safe from getting Powassan,” Elizabeth Schiffman, an epidemiologist supervisor at the Minnesota Department of Health, emphasized in a recent interview (Star Tribune).

A rare but serious tick-borne virus is drawing global attention as tick season begins in North America. Powassan virus, while uncommon, has sparked concern among researchers and public health officials for its potential impact beyond its initial hotspots—and for what it could teach Thailand about preparedness and surveillance.

Powassan virus is mainly carried by blacklegged ticks. It is considered one of the most dangerous tick-borne diseases in the United States, even though cases remain relatively few. Last year, Minnesota reported a record 14 cases, the highest since nationwide recordkeeping began in 2008. Data from Minnesota’s health authorities shows a gradual uptick, prompting both local and national responses. An epidemiologist from the Minnesota Department of Health notes that standard tick prevention measures also reduce Powassan risk, underscoring the universal value of protective practices.