The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has confirmed higher than expected rates of Powassan (POW) virus in ticks located in multiple Pennsylvania counties during the 2021 surveillance season, including Clearfield, Centre, Wyoming, Bradford, and Schuylkill counties. Although no human POW virus cases were reported in Pennsylvania in 2021, ten cases of POW virus have been reported since surveillance started in 2011. This health advisory provides healthcare providers with background information on POW virus disease including transmission, clinical signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and prevention along with how to contact the PA Department of Health or your local health department for assistance with POW virus disease and diagnostic testing as DEP closely monitors this situation. Read the health advisory.
