"First Alaskapox Virus Fatality Reported on Kenai Peninsula"
A man from the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska, who was immunocompromised due to cancer treatment, has become the first person to die from the Alaskapox virus (AKPV). AKPV, related to other orthopox viruses, primarily infects animals and has only resulted in six confirmed cases in the state. The virus is believed to be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, and caution is advised when handling small mammals. Healthcare providers are urged to familiarize themselves with AKPV symptoms, and the public is advised to avoid handling sick or dead animals and to report any suspected cases to the Department of Health.