A newborn baby girl from Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, is battling a rare and dangerous tick-borne illness. After preliminary tests showed she contracted Powassan virus, baby Lily Sisco was flown to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. The infant's mother, Tiffany Sisco, said Lily had a tick on her after a brief walk on a local bike path. "She is still fighting daily at MGH," Sisco shared on Facebook. "Although the CDC, Neurological Doctors and Nurses have no answers for long term, we remain hopeful."Reports state that local health officials are now investigating this case, which would be only the second confirmed case of Powassan virus on Martha's Vineyard in two decades.What Is Powassan Virus? The Wisconsin Department of Health Services explains that powassan virus is a rare but serious illness spread to humans through the bite of an infected deer tick (also known as a black-legged tick). While uncommon, cases are most frequently found in the northeastern U.S. and the Great Lakes region. In Wisconsin, the first case was identified in 2003, and most have since occurred in the northern part of the state. Anyone can contract the virus, but those who spend more time outdoors are at higher risk. Who Is At High Risk For Powassan Virus Infection? Ticks become infected with the virus by biting an infected small mammal, like a rodent. It's not known exactly how long a tick must be attached to a person to transmit the virus, but it could be as little as 15 minutes. The majority of human infections are caused by immature ticks called nymphs, which are about the size of a poppy seed and difficult to spot. Nymphs are most active during the spring and early summer. Adult ticks can also spread the virus but are larger and more likely to be found and removed before transmission occurs. Because ticks can attach to any part of the body, it's crucial to check hard-to-see areas after being outdoors, such as behind the knees, in the armpits, on the scalp, and around the ears and groin.Symptoms and Treatment Options For PowassanSymptoms can appear anywhere from one week to one month after a tick bite. Many people who get the virus don't have any symptoms at all. Early signs often include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, and a stiff neck. In severe cases, the virus can lead to: ConfusionSeizuresMemory lossLoss of coordinationEncephalitis (inflammation of the brain)Meningitis (inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord)There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for Powassan virus. While over-the-counter pain relievers can help with some symptoms, severe cases require supportive care in a hospital setting.Is Powassan Virus Deadly?Powassan virus can be very serious, with about 10% of severe cases resulting in death. Of those who survive a severe illness, about half will have permanent or long-term neurological problems. If you experience any of these symptoms after being outdoors, you should see a doctor right away, even if you don't remember being bitten by a tick. Ways That Can Protect And Prevent Tick-Borne DiseaseThis has been a bad year for ticks. To stay safe, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health gives this advice: Use bug spray.Wear long, light-colored clothes.Stay on paths when you are outside.Check yourself, your kids, and your pets for ticks after you've been in a grassy or wooded area.