Health authorities in Alaska have issued a grave warning following the first recorded fatal case of the rare Alaskapox virus. An elderly man from the remote Kenai Peninsula has succumbed to the illness, marking a significant and concerning development for the relatively new pathogen.
The victim, who was undergoing cancer treatment, is believed to have contracted the virus from a stray cat that frequently hunted small mammals and scratched him. This tragic case has prompted doctors to urgently alert the public about the potential severity of the virus, which was first identified in humans only nine years ago.
What is Alaskapox? Understanding the Virus
Alaskapox is a double-stranded DNA virus belonging to the same genus as smallpox, monkeypox, and cowpox. Since its discovery in 2015, just seven human cases have been reported, all within Alaska. Prior to this incident, no known deaths had been attributed to the virus.
The virus is believed to primarily circulate in small mammal populations, particularly red-backed voles and shrews, though it has also been found in other species. Human transmission appears to be zoonotic, jumping from animals to humans, rather than spreading between people.
A Timeline of the Fatal Case
The elderly victim first noticed a tender red papule in his right armpit in mid-September 2023. Over the following weeks, his condition deteriorated significantly. He experienced fatigue, pain, and eventually required hospitalization in November due to severe wounds and delayed healing—a complication likely worsened by his compromised immune system from cancer drugs.
Despite weeks of treatment and testing, the man passed away in late January 2024. Medical teams initially struggled to identify the pathogen, with tests for common viruses returning negative before Alaskapox was confirmed.
Recognising the Symptoms of Alaskapox
Health officials emphasise the importance of recognising early signs of infection. Key symptoms include:
- Skin lesions ( bumps or pustules)
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Joint or muscle pain
- Fever and fatigue
Individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to severe manifestations of the disease. The Alaska Division of Public Health advises that any suspicious symptoms should prompt immediate medical consultation.
Protecting Yourself: Prevention and Precautions
While human-to-human transmission hasn't been documented, authorities recommend cautious contact with wildlife and maintaining thorough hygiene practices. Alaskans are advised to:
- Cover exposed wounds with bandages
- Wash hands thoroughly after outdoor activities
- Avoid handling wild animals, especially small mammals
- Keep pets away from wild animals and their habitats
This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing threat posed by emerging infectious diseases and the critical importance of vigilance in remote regions where animal-human interactions are common.
