Episode Details

Rhode Island just confirmed its first Powassan virus case this year — a rare, tick-borne illness — affecting a 60-something man from Providence County who’s now recovering at home. This marks the ninth case since 2016 and the first since 2024. Nationally, Powassan cases are surging, with over 397 reported since 2014 and a record 76 last year — including 27 in New England alone. While most infections are asymptomatic, some can cause fever, meningitis, or encephalitis. No vaccine or treatment exists, so prevention is critical: use DEET spray, wear long sleeves and tucked pants, check your body thoroughly after outdoor time, and shower soon after coming inside. Ticks are tiny but dangerous — catch them early to avoid serious illness.

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