First Death From Alaskapox Reported
April 29, 2024
-
2 min
7 Key Takeaways
-
1
Alaskapox, a rare viral infection, resulted in the first death from the disease in January 202
-
2
It primarily affects individuals who have come into contact with infected animals such as cats and dogs.
-
3
The virus is primarily present in small mammals like red-backed voles and shrews in Alaska.
-
4
Symptoms can include skin lesions, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle and joint pain.
-
5
Only seven cases of Alaskapox have been reported in Alaska since 201
-
6
The disease is not believed to be transmissible between humans.
-
7
Prompt medical attention is advised for individuals experiencing symptoms of Alaskapox.
Alaska health officials have raised awareness about the risk of Alaskapox after the first death from the disease in January 2024. The deceased, an elderly patient with a history of drug-induced immunosuppression, resided in a forested area and had been in contact with a stray cat. Following a scratch from the cat, the patient developed red papules, which eventually led to severe symptoms, including acute kidney failure and respiratory failure. The disease, primarily present in small mammals like red-backed voles and shrews in the Fairbanks North Star Borough, has resulted in six of seven Alaskapox cases in the state since 2015. While not believed to be transmissible between humans, the virus has been associated with those who have owned or been in contact with cats or dogs.
Listen Tab content
