"Fatal Alaskapox Virus Claims First Victim in Alaska"

Alaskapox, a virus belonging to the orthopoxvirus family, has caused rare, relatively mild illnesses in Alaska for nine years, mainly found in small mammals and pets. Symptoms include skin lesions, joint or muscle pain, and swollen lymph nodes, with potential danger for those with weakened immune systems. Spread through contact with infected animals, the recent death of an elderly man in the Kenai Peninsula marks the first known fatality from the virus. Health officials advise maintaining a safe distance from wildlife and washing hands after outdoor activities to prevent infection.