Rare tick-borne illness being investigated on Martha’s Vineyard

WEST TISBURY, Mass. (WLNE) — The West Tisbury Emergency Management Department said that Powassan virus was being investigated on Martha’s Vineyard.

The department said Powassan virus can cause severe, life-threatening illness and can spread the infection within 15 minutes of deer tick attachment.

Key Facts About #PowassanVirus:
• Rare but can cause life-threatening illness
• Transmitted by deer ticks (both nymphs + adults)
• Can infect you within 15 minutes of tick attachment
• Active risk when temps are above 40°F
• Prevention is essential—year-round#TickSafety pic.twitter.com/N7QkgIEW2H

— West Tisbury Emergency Management (@WestTisburyEMD) August 6, 2025

The following steps were recommended to prevent the spread of the virus:

• Perform daily tick checks in and around the ears and hair, under the arms, around the waist and back of the knees, inside the belly button, and between the legs  
• Shower and change after being outdoors
• Toss clothes in dryer on high heat