Conn. (WTIC Radio)_ Two Connecticut residents have tested positive for the tick-transmitted Powassan virus.
State Health Officials, between the ages of 50 and 79, live in Fairfield and New Haven counties. Both became ill during the third week of April.
Lab tests have confirmed antibodies for POWV.
The two individuals have since been released from the hospital and are recovering.
While most people infected with POWV likely experience no symptoms or a mild flu-like illness, some people will develop severe illness affecting the central nervous system.
About 1 out of 10 cases of severe illness are fatal and approximately half of survivors experience long term health problems.
Severe cases may begin with fever, vomiting, headache, or weakness and rapidly progress to confusion, loss of coordination, difficulty speaking, or seizures.
"Using insect repellent, avoiding areas where ticks are likely, and checking carefully for ticks after being outside can reduce the chance of you or your children being infected with this virus," explains Acting State Health Commissioner, Dr. Deidre Gifford.