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A rare deadly tick-borne disease was confirmed in a Massachusetts town. The Sharon Health Department confirmed the first case of Powassan virus, according to a release. And they are warning residents to take precautions. Powassan virus, like Lyme, is transmitted through infected ticks. The virus is considered rare, but the health department said the number of reported cases of people sick from Powassan virus has increased in recent years. There were 44 cases across the U.S. in 2023, including 10 in Massachusetts, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There are no vaccines to prevent the virus, according to the CDC. There also aren't any medicines to treat it. The health department said most people exposed won't feel ill. But others may become severely ill starting one week to a month after the tick bite. This includes meningitis, which includes inflammation of the covering of the brain and spinal cord, or encephalitis, which includes inflammation of the brain. Signs and symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, loss of coordination, speech difficulties and seizures, the health department said. To prevent tick bites, officials suggest wearing tick repellent with DEET, tucking pants into socks or boots, stay on trails, showering after exposure and talking with your veterinarian about tick control options for pets. If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.