"Alaskapox Claims First Life in US: Elderly Man Dies from Newly Discovered Virus"
Health officials in Alaska have reported the first death linked to Alaskapox, a recently identified orthopox virus. The deceased, an immunocompromised man, is one of seven reported cases. The virus is believed to have been contracted from a house cat, although the cat tested negative for the infection. Alaskapox causes skin lesions and flu-like symptoms, with no documented human-to-human transmission. Those with skin lesions are advised to cover the affected area and avoid sharing bedding or linens.