New Tick-Borne Virus Discovered-Symptoms and How To Protect Yourself

Key Points:

• Scientists in China have identified a new tick-borne virus named Asian longhorned tick nairovirus (ALTNV), which causes influenza-like symptoms including fever, fatigue, gastrointestinal issues, and abnormal lab results.
• ALTNV was found in over 10% of patients bitten by ticks who tested negative for Dabie bandavirus (DBV), a related tick-borne virus with a high fatality rate; co-infection with both viruses increases severity and death risk.
• The Asian longhorned tick, which carries ALTNV, is capable of rapid population growth through asexual reproduction and has already spread to parts of the U.S., though ALTNV itself has not yet been detected in American ticks.
• Health experts urge people in tick-infested areas to take precautions such as using repellents, wearing protective clothing, checking for ticks after outdoor activities, and seeking medical care promptly if symptoms develop following a tick bite.
• The discovery highlights the need for improved diagnostic testing to differentiate between ALTNV and DBV infections, especially in regions where Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome is endemic.