LoneStarMapTickborne illness • Explainer
Heartland and Bourbon virus
Heartland virus and Bourbon virus are rare illnesses associated with Lone Star tick bites in parts of the United States. Both can cause fever, fatigue, and low blood-cell counts, and neither has a specific antiviral treatment — care is supportive. They are uncommon, but severe or persistent symptoms after a tick bite always warrant prompt medical attention. This is educational information only.
Last reviewed: July 20, 2026 · Educational only — not medical advice.
The short version
- Rare viral illnesses linked to Lone Star tick bites.
- Symptoms can include fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, nausea.
- No specific antiviral treatment — care is supportive.
- Prevention (avoiding bites) is the best protection.
Heartland virus
Heartland virus can cause fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and reduced counts of certain blood cells. Most reported cases have been in people with extensive outdoor exposure in areas where the Lone Star tick is present. There is no specific antiviral medication, so treatment focuses on managing symptoms.
Bourbon virus
Bourbon virus, first identified in the U.S. in 2014, is very rare and can cause fever, fatigue, rash, headache, and low blood-cell counts. Like Heartland virus, there is no specific treatment, and care is supportive.
When to seek care and how to prevent bites
Seek medical care for a high or persistent fever, severe fatigue, or feeling seriously unwell after a tick bite — and mention the exposure. Because there's no specific treatment, prevention matters most: repellent, permethrin-treated clothing, avoiding tall grass and brush, daily tick checks, and prompt tick removal.
Frequently asked questions
How serious are Heartland and Bourbon viruses?+
Both are rare and range in severity; some people have been hospitalized. There is no specific antiviral treatment, so care is supportive. Severe or persistent symptoms after a tick bite need prompt medical attention.
Is there a treatment or vaccine?+
There is no specific antiviral treatment and no vaccine for either virus. Management is supportive and directed by a licensed clinician, which is why preventing tick bites is the priority.
How can I protect myself?+
Avoid bites: use EPA-registered repellent, treat clothing with permethrin, stay out of tall grass and leaf litter, do daily tick checks, and remove attached ticks promptly.
Sources used
- Heartland VirusCDC
Rare virus associated with Lone Star tick bites; no specific antiviral treatment.
- Bourbon VirusCDC
Rare tickborne virus first identified in the U.S. in 2014; supportive care only.
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Heartland and Bourbon virus
Heartland and Bourbon viruses are rare illnesses linked to Lone Star tick bites, with no specific antiviral treatment. Learn the symptoms and how to prevent bites. Educational, not medical advice.