Borealpox (formerly Alaskapox)
A virus is transmitted by small mammals
Overview
Formerly known as Alaskapox, Borealpox virus is an orthopoxvirus that was first identified in Fairbanks, Alaska, in 2015. An orthopoxvirus is a type of virus that affects mammals (including people) and can cause skin lesions.
Six cases of borealpox virus have been reported in Alaska. The people involved included five from the Fairbanks North Star Borough, and one from the Kenai Peninsula Borough. Other infections could have occurred in other people who were not diagnosed.
Samples of small mammals in the Fairbanks North Star Borough have found the borealpox virus mostly in red-backed voles and shrews. The virus could also be in other small mammals in Alaska. Domestic pets (cats and dogs) may also play a role in spreading the virus.
We do not know of any cases of "human-to-human transmission," which is when one person passes a virus directly to another person. However, we do know that other orthopoxviruses can be transmitted by touching skin lesions. Out of caution, we recommend people with skin lesions possibly caused by borealpox cover the affected area with a bandage.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Symptoms of borealpox have included:
- One or more skin lesions (bumps or pustules)
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Pain in the joints or muscles
Treatment
Borealpox is a mild, self-limited disease for most people; however, clinicians should consider prescribing antiviral and intravenous vaccinia immunoglobulin (VIGIV) therapy for immunocompromised patients or those with progressive disease. The DPH Section of Epidemiology and the CDC can support with treatment consultation if needed.
Prevention
- Avoid contact with wild animals
- Don't pick up or touch dead animals with your bare hands
- Keep your pets away from dead animals
- Wash hands with soap and water after spending time outdoors
- Don't touch open skin lesions on yourself or anyone else
Reporting
Health care providers who suspect borealpox virus infection and have not identified an alternative diagnosis should contact the Alaska Section of Epidemiology at 907-269-8000.