Alaskapox Virus | What is Alaskapox? Newly discovered viral disease claims one life N18V

Alaskapox virus: First identified in 2015 in an adult in Fairbanks, Alaska, Alaskapox virus is a double-stranded DNA virus in the same genus as smallpox, monkeypox, and cowpox. It is most common among small mammals. According to the Alaska State website, “To date, human-to-human transmission of Alaskapox virus has not been documented. However, because some orthopoxviruses can be transmitted through direct contact with skin lesions, we recommend that patients with possible symptoms of People with skin lesions infected by Alaska pox should cover the affected area with a bandage.”