Experts say to be cautious when handling small mammals in the state, but infection is rare and death unlikely.
A Kenai man died in late January from the Alaskapox virus, according to the state health department. He was immunocompromised and is the first known person to die from the Alaskapox virus, or AKPV.
“Orthopox viruses are zoonotic viruses, meaning that they circulate primarily within animal populations with spillover into humans occasionally,” Rogers said. Only six other people have had confirmed Alaskapox cases and they were all in the Fairbanks area. All of the previous infections have been from contact with animals. The state has tested small mammals for the virus and found it mostly in red voles and squirrels. Because there are so few cases, epidemiologists don’t know exactly how people can get the virus but Rogers said it’s likely transmitted by direct contact with an infected animal.
“If you’re trapping or hunting, make sure that you’re trying to avoid having any of your pets interact or make contact with these small mammals,” Rogers said.Dr. Ben Westley, an infectious disease specialist, said it’s important for healthcare providers to learn how to recognize pox lesions.
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Kenai Peninsula man is the first person to die of Alaskapox virusExperts say to be cautious when handling small mammals in the state, but infection is rare and death unlikely.
Read more »
State reports first known fatal case of AlaskapoxA Kenai Peninsula man died in January of the virus that until now had resulted in mild symptoms and only been detected in Interior Alaska.
Read more »
State: Elderly man’s death 1st known fatal infection of AlaskapoxThe State of Alaska Department of Health says a Kenai Peninsula man died in December from complications due to the viral infection Alaskapox.
Read more »
Experts Warn That the Food You’re Eating May Have Been 'Pre-Digested'Science and Technology News and Videos
Read more »
Experts warn parents of threats as Lurie's Children's Hospital hit by cyberattackCybersecurity experts are warning parents to be vigilant after a ‘cybersecurity matter’ caused significant issues at Chicago’s Lurie Children’s…
Read more »
2024 Super Bowl predictions: Experts pick between 49ers and Chiefs for SB LVIIIFOX Sports' staff of football writers deliver their predictions on who will be left holding the Lombardi Trophy on Sunday night at Allegiant Stadium.
Read more »