The Maine CDC says one person has died of Powassan virus in Waldo County.
Health officials say the adult developed neurological symptoms and died in the hospital. The believe the person was infected in Maine.
Cases of Powassan virus are rare in the United States, with only 25 cases reported each year since 2015. TMaine has confirmed only 14 cases since 2010.
The virus is transmitted through bites from infected deer or woodchuck ticks.
Maine CDC Director Dr. Nirav Shah reminded everyone to take steps to prevent tick bites this time of year. Mainers are urged to avoid areas where ticks are active, use EPA-approved repellant on skin, and perform tick checks after spending time outdoors.
