Which pathogen transmitted by I. pacificus can lead to severe neurological disease like encephalitis or meningitis?
Answer
Powassan Virus (POWV)
Among the key pathogens associated with the Western Blacklegged Tick, the Powassan Virus (POWV) is highlighted as a rare but serious threat due to its potential neurological impact. Infection with POWV can manifest in severe conditions affecting the central nervous system, specifically leading to encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain, or meningitis, which is inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. While Lyme disease and *Borrelia miyamotoi* are also significant concerns transmitted by this vector, POWV represents the most severe potential neurological outcome mentioned in the context of *I. pacificus* activity.
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