They're carrying an emerging virus.
. Studies have shown that the Lone Star tick can transmit this virus, according to the CDC, but it is"not known if other species of ticks might also transmit the virus or if people can be infected in other ways."of the Heartland virus to show up after an infected tick bite. Most people infected with the Heartland virus experience fever, fatigue, decreased appetite, headache, nausea, diarrhea, and muscle, or joint pain.
"Some people also have lower than normal counts of white blood cells and lower than normal counts of platelets ," the CDC adds."Sometimes tests to check how well the liver is working can show increased levels of liver enzymes."Experts say you should be trying to prevent tick bites throughout the year, especially with emerging diseases like the Heartland virus.
But according to WebMD,"high tick season" is approaching, as it runs between April and September. Perhaps not coincidentally, the CDC reports that most people diagnosed with the disease became sick from May through September. "All residents of and visitors to areas where Heartland virus activity has been identified are at risk of Heartland virus infection, particularly people who engage in outdoor work and recreational activities," the CDC warns.