Richard C. Anderson, president | Illinois State Medical Society
Richard C. Anderson, president | Illinois State Medical Society
An Illinois resident has been diagnosed with Powassan virus, a tickborne illness not previously found in the state, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). Health officials are investigating whether the individual contracted the virus from a tick bite within Illinois or elsewhere.
“With warm weather still prevalent, tick-borne diseases remain a potential threat here in Illinois,” said IDPH Director and ISMS member Sameer Vohra, M.D., J.D., M.A. “It’s important for everyone to guard against tick bites and the serious illnesses they can cause.”
Powassan is one of several illnesses that ticks can transmit. Others include Lyme disease, which is already present in Illinois.
The IDPH and local health departments are continuing their investigation into this case. The public is reminded to take precautions against tick bites throughout the fall season.
For further questions, individuals are encouraged to contact the ISMS Health Policy Research and Advocacy team by email.
Alerts Sign-up