The state of Pennsylvania (USA) has recently recorded the highest concentration of ticks ever found carrying a variant of a potentially lethal virus (Powassan). It is known as deer tick virus (DTV) and can cause a fatal infection with long-term neurological consequences. Officials fear that Powassan and other serious tick-borne diseases could become more common in the future.

The Powassan virus was transmitted to humans by the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis) during the recent period between 2008 and 2017. Most cases reported to date have been diagnosed in the Great Lakes region.
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