Health and Fitness : Ticks Likely Source for New Heartland Virus

What is a phlebovirus?
"Phlebovirus" is the name for a family of related viruses. Viruses in this family are found all over the world. Some of these viruses can cause people to get sick. Most of the phleboviruses that cause people to become ill are passed through the bite of a mosquito, tick, or sandfly. Recently, a new phlebovirus that causes illness in people was discovered in Missouri. The new phlebovirus has been named Heartland virus.

RESEARCH UPDATE: The July 22, 2013 edition of the American Journal and Tropical Medicine and Hygiene published an article, titled “First Detection of Heartland Virus (Bunyaviridae: Phlebovirus) from Field Collected Arthropods” suggests Lone Star Ticks are the vector to this virus.

How do people get infected with phleboviruses?
Most of the phleboviruses that cause people to become ill are passed through the bite of a mosquito, tick, or sand fly. It is not yet known how people become infected with the new Heartland virus. (See above update).

Where have cases of Heartland virus disease occurred?
To date, two cases of Heartland virus disease have been identified. Both patients were residents of Missouri. It is unknown at this time if the virus may be found in other areas of the United States.

What are the symptoms caused by Heartland virus?
The two Missouri residents had a flu-like illness. They had a fever, felt tired, did not want to eat, and had diarrhea. They also had lower numbers of cells that fight infection and help with clotting. At first, doctors thought they had a tick-borne illness called ehrlichiosis. However, they did not get better with medicine used to treat that disease. Special testing determined they were infected with Heartland virus. Both patients were in the hospital for about 10 days. Both have since recovered.

Who is at risk for infection with Heartland virus?
It is not yet known how people get infected with Heartland virus (See above update). However, it is likely passed to people through a bite of a tick, mosquito, or other insect. Therefore, people who work outside or participate in outdoor activities, where they are exposed to insects or ticks, may be more likely to get infected.

How can people reduce the chance of getting infected with Heartland virus?
Preventing bites from ticks and mosquitoes may prevent this and other infections. There is no vaccine or drug to prevent or treat the disease.

-When going outside during the warmer months, use insect repellant on exposed skin.
-Wear long sleeves and pants when weather permits.
-Reduce ticks and mosquitoes in the yard.

If you suspect a tick bite or have questions or concerns contact your VGH Healthcare provider. Click here.

Source: CDC

Source: The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene