Powassan encephalitis
- Pronunciation
- /POW-sahn en-SEF-uh-LY-tis/
- Category
- Disease
- Singular
- Powassan encephalitis
- Plural
- Powassan encephalitis
Definition
A rare but serious viral encephalitis transmitted by ticks, primarily in the northeastern United States.
Etymology
Named after the Powassan virus, which was first isolated in Powassan, Ontario, Canada in 1958.
Example
Powassan encephalitis can cause severe neurological complications, including encephalitis and meningitis.
Related Terms
- Ticks
- Encephalitis
- Virus
Usage Notes
Early symptoms of Powassan encephalitis often resemble those of other viral infections, making diagnosis challenging.