Alaskapox: A New Threat in Alaska’s Wilderness

Alaska, known for its beautiful wilderness, is now grappling with a unique health concern. Alaskapox, a rare orthopoxvirus, has claimed its first life, marking a critical turn in the virus's history since it was first identified in 2015. This orthopoxvirus, primarily found in small mammals, has now been linked to seven reported human infections, and health officials in Alaska are urging residents to be vigilant of its symptoms.

A Closer Look at Alaskapox

Alaskapox virus is an orthopoxvirus, a genus of viruses that includes smallpox, and was first identified in a patient in Fairbanks, Alaska in 2015. Since then, six additional cases have been reported in the state, primarily in individuals who have come into contact with small mammals, such as shrews and voles. The symptoms of Alaskapox include skin lesions, swollen lymph nodes, and joint/muscle pain.

First Fatality from Alaskapox

The first known fatality from Alaskapox occurred in January 2024. An elderly man living in Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, with a weakened immune system due to cancer treatment, contracted the virus and later succumbed to the illness. This marks a significant development in the virus's history, as previous cases have been mild and resolved on their own without hospitalization.

Transmission and Prevention

While the exact mode of transmission from animals to humans remains unclear, health officials believe that Alaskapox may spread through contact with small mammals and domestic animals. Although some orthopoxviruses can spread between people, there is no evidence that a person with Alaskapox can spread it to someone else. As a preventive measure, people with skin lesions possibly caused by Alaskapox are recommended to keep the affected area covered with a bandage.

The Current Risk and Future Steps

Although the disease is rare and the risk to people outside of Alaska is currently low, it is important for Alaskans to be aware of the signs and symptoms of Alaskapox and consult a health care provider if they have a suspicious rash. The potential for person-to-person transmission cannot be excluded, making it crucial for healthcare providers to report any suspected cases to the Alaska Section of Epidemiology.

The Alaskapox virus has shown that it can lead to severe illness in immunocompromised individuals, such as the elderly man who recently passed away. As of now, the risk of Alaskapox virus being a major public health concern is very low. However, there is a need for more animal sampling and testing to understand the virus better, especially its transmission dynamics, potential hosts, and geographical range.

In conclusion, while Alaskapox is currently a limited threat, its presence serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing disease surveillance, particularly in geographical areas with high levels of wildlife interaction. As our understanding of this virus continues to evolve, it underscores the significance of public awareness, preventive measures, and timely reporting in managing such emerging health threats.