Alaskapox

For nine years, Alaska health officials have been aware of an unusual virus causing rare, relatively mild illnesses in the Fairbanks area.But a recent case in another part of the state — this one resulting in a man's death — has brought new attention to the  Alaskapox virus.Here's some background on the virus.What is Alaskapox?Alaskapox belongs to a family of brick-shaped viruses that can infect animals and humans. These bugs, known as orthopoxviruses, tend to cause lesions, or pox, on the skin. Each has its own…

Scientists and health professionals are closely monitoring a rare virus known as Alaskapox after a fatal case popped up in a new area.The few cases diagnosed since Alaskapox was first identified in 2015 have typically been associated with mild symptoms, including joint and muscle pain, swollen lymph nodes, and one or more bumps or pustules on the skin.The virus usually clears up after a few weeks but can be more dangerous for people with weakened immune systems.An elderly man on the Kenai Peninsula has become the first…

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