An elderly man on the Kenai Peninsula has succumbed to Alaskapox virus, marking the first human fatality attributed to the viral disease discovered only nine years ago, according to state health officials. This unfortunate event not only represents the inaugural human death but also the initial documented infection beyond the Fairbanks area, where the virus was initially identified.
The patient, who had a compromised immune system due to cancer treatment, reported signs of infection in September. A tender lesion in the armpit area marked the onset of the disease, leading to a series of emergency care visits. Despite efforts, the patient’s condition worsened, resulting in hospitalization and subsequent transfer to an Anchorage hospital. Extensive tests were required to pinpoint the Alaskapox virus infection, and despite treatment, the individual faced complications such as renal failure, respiratory failure, and malnutrition, ultimately succumbing in late January.
Alaskapox virus belongs to the orthopox group, related to more serious viruses causing smallpox and monkeypox. Primarily harbored by small mammals, such as voles found widely in Alaska, the disease has demonstrated a concerning progression beyond wildlife populations, now reaching human fatalities.
The previous Alaskapox virus cases reported mild symptoms, including rashes, fevers, and fatigue, with all patients recovering without hospitalization. However, this recent fatality highlights the potential severity, particularly for individuals with compromised immune systems.
The Kenai Peninsula case underscores the virus’s potential transmission outside its initial epicenter, posing a broader public health concern. Researchers are actively investigating the virus’s prevalence and origins, with signs suggesting its circulation among small mammals for decades.
As the University of Alaska Museum of the North initiates a comprehensive testing program on Alaska animal specimens, health officials emphasize the need for enhanced understanding and proactive measures. The broader implications of zoonotic diseases, including Alaskapox virus, demand a more open-minded and research-focused approach, adapting to evolving threats and ensuring preparedness in the face of emerging diseases.
