MADISON, Wis. (WBAY) – A warning from the Wisconsin state health department after three people were hospitalized this month and one died from a tickborne virus you may not have heard of.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) recommends you get tested for the Powassan virus.

The virus is transmitted to people through an infected, blacklegged tick — a deer tick.

That’s the same tick that spreads Lyme disease and several other diseases in Wisconsin.

The virus is rare, but last year the state reported 12 cases of Powassan virus, the most of any calendar year. It was the second-highest number of cases in the U.S. after Minnesota, which had 14.

DHS says an infection can lead to a mild illness or neurological disease. It can present itself like meningitis or encephalitis. Some symptoms of Powassan virus include fever, headache, vomiting and weakness.

It can be especially risky for older adults and younger kids, people with weaker immune systems.

State health officials say it’s important to get tested early. It’s the only way to treat any symptoms.

Right now there’s no specific treatment for the disease.

DHS says reporting the case to state or local public health officials is important.

Even more important is to make sure you’re being safe and practicing tick bite prevention outdoors, like wearing repellant, long-sleeved clothing, and tucking your pants into socks.

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