NJ – Beware of this Horrifying Tick Carrying a ‘Brain Swelling Virus’

I've seen more ticks this season than in recent memory, not only on my pooch but also on me.

As if that were not creepy enough, dangerous and deadly, ticks carry a brain-swelling virus. Great.

Health officials say it's worse than Lyme disease. It's the Powassan virus, and it can be deadly.

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In the past years, New Jersey residents have been infected. One man even died.

This potentially deadly virus attacks the nervous system and rapidly affects one's memory, thinking, and balance.

There's no vaccine for the Powassan virus.

Rapid brain swelling after infection may cause long-term neurological damage.

Here are some crucial facts from the CDC about Powassan:

• Many people infected with the Powassan virus do not develop any symptoms.
• The incubation period (from tick bite to onset of illness) ranges from about one week to one month.
• POW virus can infect the central nervous system and cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and meningitis (inflammation of the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord).
• Symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, loss of coordination, speech difficulties, and seizures.
• Approximately half of the survivors have permanent neurological symptoms, such as recurrent headaches, muscle wasting, and memory problems.
• Approximately 10 percent of POW virus encephalitis cases are fatal.

READ MORE: New Jersey Told to Beware of the Potentially Deadly 'Kissing Bug'

Treatment

• There are no vaccines or medications to treat or prevent POW virus infection.
• If you think you or a family member may have POW virus disease, see your healthcare provider for evaluation and diagnosis.
• Persons with severe POW illnesses often need to be hospitalized. Treatment may include respiratory support, intravenous fluids, and medications to reduce swelling in the brain.

Take Precaution!

• Avoid wooded and bushy areas with high grass and leaf litter.
• Walk in the center of the trails.
• Repel ticks on skin and clothing.
• Use a repellent containing 20 percent or more DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 on exposed skin for several hours of protection.
• Always follow product instructions. Parents should apply this product to their children, avoiding hands, eyes, and mouth.
• Use products that contain permethrin on clothing. Treat clothing and gear, such as boots, pants, socks, and tents, with products containing 0.5 percent permethrin. It remains protective through several washings. Pre-treated clothing is available and may be protective longer.