The recent demise of an elderly individual in Alaska due to Alaskapox, as reported by state health authorities, marks the first documented fatality associated with this emerging virus, garnering increased attention.
The deceased, a resident of the secluded Kenai Peninsula, exhibited a compromised immune system as a result of cancer treatment.
Hospitalized in November, he succumbed to the illness in late January, as outlined in a bulletin issued by Alaska public health officials on Friday.
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Alaskapox, also identified as AKPV, belongs to the orthopoxvirus family, known to infect mammals and induce skin lesions, according to information provided by the Alaska Department of Health.
While the method by which the individual contracted the virus remains uncertain, authorities have suggested a potential connection to a stray cat that resided with him.
This announcement coincides with recent reports from Oregon health officials confirming a rare instance of human plague in a resident, presumably transmitted by their domestic feline companion.
Investigating the Spread of Alaskapox
The precise mode of transmission for Alaskapox remains uncertain; however, researchers suggest it may possess zoonotic potential, indicating the capacity to transfer from animals to humans.
According to the bulletin addressing the AKPV-related fatality, tests conducted revealed indications of current or past infection in various species of small mammals in the Fairbanks vicinity, including red-backed voles and at least one domestic pet.
Although the cat associated with the recent case tested negative for the virus, the bulletin noted that it frequently engaged in hunting small mammals and scratching the patient.
This suggests the possibility that the cat might have harbored the virus on its claws at the time of scratching.
In addition to exercising caution when encountering wildlife to mitigate the risk of potential Alaskapox infections, authorities advise vigilance regarding skin lesions that could be attributed to the virus.
“As of present, there have been no documented cases of human-to-human transmission of Alaskapox virus.
Symptoms of Alaskapox
The Alaska Department of Health outlined the symptoms associated with Alaskapox, which may manifest as:
- Presence of one or more skin lesions
- Development of a rash
- Swelling of lymph nodes
- Experience of joint or muscle pain
Dr. Joe McLaughlin, serving as the state epidemiologist and chief of the Alaska Section of Epidemiology at the Alaska Department of Health, advised CBS News that individuals in Alaska are generally advised to consult their healthcare provider upon encountering a lesion resembling Alaskapox.