A Kankakee resident recently tested positive for Heartland virus, the first reported case in the state.
Reported cases of Heartland virus disease are relatively rare, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. More than 30 cases of Heartland virus disease have been reported in the Midwest and southern United States.
“We’ve been seeing much warmer weather than usual for this time of the year, which people have taken advantage of by spending time outside,” said Illinois Department of Public Health Director Nirav D. Shah, M.D., J.D. “While the weather is still warm, continue to take steps to protect yourself from tick bites.”
Heartland virus was first identified in 2009 when two Missouri farmers who had been bitten by ticks were admitted to a hospital. Almost all individuals with Heartland virus have been hospitalized. Although most people infected have fully recovered, a few have died.
There are no vaccines to prevent Heartland virus infections.
Signs and symptoms of infection are similar to those of other tickborne diseases and can include fever, headaches, fatigue, muscle aches, and diarrhea. Most people have reported becoming sick about two weeks after being bit by a tick. And while there is no treatment, doctors can treat some of the symptoms.
Ticks are commonly found on the tips of grasses and shrubs.
Additional information about ticks can be found on the IDPH website.
