A Massachusetts family is speaking out after losing their loved one to a rare tick-borne illness — hoping their tragedy will help others recognize the dangers of ticks as warm weather returns.
Kevin Boyce, 62, died in May 2024 after contracting Powassan virus (POWV), an uncommon but serious infection spread through tick bites. His family says the illness progressed so quickly and aggressively that they want others to understand just how devastating the virus can be.
A Tick Bite That Changed Everything
Kevin had been unknowingly bitten by a tick in April 2024. Within days, he began feeling unwell — headaches, vomiting, and symptoms that resembled the flu. But instead of improving, his condition rapidly worsened.
After collapsing at home, he was rushed to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, where he was admitted to the ICU. Doctors soon determined he had contracted the Powassan virus — a disease that, while rare, has been increasing in reported cases over the past decade.
What Is Powassan Virus?
Although most tick bites do not transmit Powassan virus, the illness can be severe when it occurs.
Symptoms may include:
Fever
Headaches
Vomiting
Confusion or difficulty thinking
Weakness
Trouble speaking
Loss of coordination
Seizures
In severe cases, POWV can cause inflammation of the spinal cord (myelitis) or the brain (encephalitis). Yale Medicine reports that about 10% of severe cases are fatal.
“His Brain Suffered Extreme Damage”
Kevin’s daughter, Erin, shared with CBS News that despite every effort doctors made, the infection caused catastrophic damage.
“He had severe brain damage — the encephalitis caused his brain to swell so badly that it essentially blew up,” she said. “It was the worst thing to witness. But we knew Kevin wouldn’t want to live that way.”
Kevin died several weeks after being admitted, leaving behind his wife, two sons, and a young granddaughter.
Rising Cases and No Specific Treatment
In 2024, Massachusetts reported 12 of the 54 Powassan virus cases recorded nationwide. There is no antiviral medication or vaccine currently available for POWV, according to the CDC. Treatment focuses on supportive care to reduce swelling and protect the brain.
The virus can be transmitted astonishingly quickly — in as little as 15 minutes after the tick attaches, according to the Massachusetts Department of Health.
A Family’s Message: Stay Alert
Erin says her family wants others to take tick prevention seriously.
“We want people to be aware. Check your body. Check your kids. If there’s a tick, remove it right away. This can happen to anyone,” she said.
Tick Prevention Tips
Health experts recommend the following steps:
Before Going Outdoors
Wear long sleeves and long pants
Tuck pants into socks or use tape to seal openings
Choose light-colored clothing so ticks are easier to spot
Stay in the center of trails; avoid brush and shrubs
Use repellents containing DEET, permethrin, or picaridin
After Coming Indoors
Check yourself, children, and pets for ticks
Shower promptly to wash away any unattached ticks
Wash clothing in hot water to kill lingering ticks
Remove any found tick with tweezers as soon as possible
Symptoms of POWV infection typically appear one to four weeks after a tick bite.
Kevin Boyce’s family is sharing his story to remind others that tick bites — often dismissed as a minor nuisance — can sometimes lead to serious illness. Their hope is that increased awareness can help prevent similar tragedies and encourage people to protect themselves during tick season.