Madison County Resident Tests Positive for Powassan Virus

Madison, WI, October 5, 2026 — A case of Powassan Virus (POWV) has been confirmed in a resident of Madison County, health officials announced. The specific identity of the individual and the exact date of diagnosis were not immediately available.

Powassan Virus is a rare but potentially serious tick-borne illness that can affect the central nervous system. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected tick.

Symptoms of Powassan Virus infection can vary widely and may include fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches. In more severe cases, the virus can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). Neurological symptoms can include confusion, loss of coordination, difficulty speaking, and seizures. Severe cases can be fatal, though this is rare.

The timeframe for symptom onset following an infected tick bite can range from a few days to a month. Currently, there is no specific treatment for Powassan Virus infection, and care is typically supportive, focusing on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Prevention strategies are key to avoiding infection.

Health authorities remind residents to take precautions to prevent tick bites, especially during warmer months when ticks are most active. These measures include:

• Wearing protective clothing, such as long sleeves and pants, when spending time in wooded or grassy areas.
• Using insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin.
• Checking clothing, gear, and pets for ticks after outdoor activities.
• Taking a shower or bath soon after returning indoors to help wash off ticks that may be crawling on the skin.
• Tucking pants into socks and wearing long-sleeved shirts to create a barrier against ticks.

Information regarding the specific tick species responsible for the transmission or the precise location within Madison County where the infection may have occurred was not provided. Residents experiencing symptoms consistent with Powassan Virus infection are advised to seek medical attention promptly and inform their healthcare provider about potential tick exposure.

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