The Powassan Virus Makes Columbia SC Tick Control All the More Important

Posted by Mosquito Squad

April 20, 2015

Have you seen the recent reports of the tick-borne illness called the Powassan virus?

While threats of Lyme Disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever have been around for quite a while, the recent uptick in cases of the Powassan virus have scientists very concerned. Columbia SC tick control is now more important than ever.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the virus is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick. The effects of this debilitating virus are:

  • Symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, loss of coordination, speech difficulties, and seizures.
  • Infection of the central nervous system that can cause encephalitis (brain inflammation) and meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord).
  • Approximately half of survivors have permanent neurological symptoms, such as recurrent headaches, muscle wasting and memory problems.
  • Approximately 10% of Powassan virus encephalitis cases are fatal.

Unfortunately, there are no vaccines or medications to treat or protect against Powassan virus infection. At this point, the only viable method of avoiding being infected is by prevention. That’s where we, Mosquito Squad of Columbia, can help. Through barrier sprays on your property, you can be assured there are no ticks waiting to latch onto you or your family members.