Alaskapox: First Fatal Case Raises Concerns

Health officials in Alaska have reported the state’s first fatal case of Alaskapox, a virus discovered by researchers only nine years ago. The case marks not only the first death from the virus but indicates it has spread beyond its previously known habitat.

Alaskapox, part of the orthopox virus group, which includes the more widely known smallpox and monkeypox, was first identified in an adult in Fairbanks in 2015. Since then, cases have been relatively rare, with only seven infections reported to date. This week’s death of an elderly, immunocompromised man from the Kenai Peninsula points to a potentially growing health concern. The man initially experienced minor symptoms that progressed, eventually leading to severe complications, including kidney and respiratory failure.

This virus primarily affects small mammals such as voles and shrews, but the latest case suggests a possible wider spread among Alaska’s wildlife and perhaps further into human populations. Research into Alaskapox and its presence in small mammal populations is ongoing, with findings suggesting the virus may have been circulating in the wild for decades. Recent tests conducted on a 25-year-old vole specimen indicate the virus has been part of the local ecosystem long before it was identified.

Officials are still investigating how the man contracted the virus, though it’s suspected that a stray cat might have been the carrier. The deceased had reportedly been caring for the cat recently, and it is highly likely the cat regularly hunted small animals. The cat tested negative for the virus, but officials said it was possible the virus was transmitted to the man through the cat’s claws.

Alaska health officials emphasize that awareness and vigilance are critical, but caution that the public should not be overly alarmed. Early recognition of symptoms is critical for the proper treatment of infection, especially for those with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and the very young.

The state has issued recommendations to medical providers, asking they assist in increasing public awareness of the virus. Residents have also been advised to maintain good personal hygiene especially when in contact with wildlife or pets that may interact with wild animals.